Understanding the Complex Process of Facial Aging
Facial aging is a multifaceted process involving changes to the skin, soft tissue, and underlying bone structure. The perception that cheekbones become more pronounced with age is often a result of these changes working in tandem. Instead of the bones themselves growing, the support system around them changes, revealing more of the underlying skeletal structure.
The Role of Bone Resorption
Contrary to the idea of bony growth, one of the primary drivers of facial aging is bone resorption. This is the process where bone tissue breaks down and is not replaced as effectively as when we were younger. It occurs throughout the body but has a very noticeable effect on the face. Studies using 3D computed tomography (CT) scans have shown that certain areas of the facial skeleton are particularly susceptible to this volume loss.
- Midface Recession: The maxilla, or upper jawbone that provides structure to the midface, recedes and loses volume with age. This loss of skeletal support is a key factor in the development of nasolabial folds and the flattening of the cheeks.
- Enlarging Eye Sockets: The orbital bones surrounding the eye sockets increase in size as their rims resorb. This creates a hollowed-out look that can make the eyes appear more sunken and tired.
- Jawline and Chin Changes: The lower jawbone also experiences a decrease in volume, especially in the prejowl area. This, combined with soft tissue changes, contributes to the loss of a defined jawline and the formation of jowls.
Fat Redistribution and Volume Loss
When we are young, the fat in our face is distributed in plump, high-sitting fat pads that give the face a youthful, heart-shaped appearance. With age, these fat pads begin to shrink and shift downward due to gravity and weakened ligaments.
- Cheek Fat: The deep fat compartments in the cheeks lose volume and descend toward the lower face. This loss of volume from the central cheek area leaves the underlying bone, the zygoma, more exposed and can make it appear more prominent or larger by comparison.
- Temple and Eye Area: Volume loss in the temples and under the eyes also contributes to a gaunt appearance. The hollows that form accentuate the nearby bone structure, including the outer edges of the cheekbones.
- Lower Face: The shifting fat pads, in combination with a softer jawline, can cause the lower face to appear wider and heavier, inverting the youthful 'triangle of beauty'.
Skin and Soft Tissue Changes
As the facial bone structure and fat pads change, the skin and soft tissues that drape over them are also aging. The skin produces less collagen and elastin, proteins that provide elasticity and firmness. The resulting skin laxity means it no longer sits snugly over the facial contours, but sags and wrinkles.
How Bone Resorption and Soft Tissue Changes Impact Cheekbone Appearance
Comparing Youthful vs. Aged Facial Structures
| Feature | Youthful Face | Aged Face |
|---|---|---|
| Cheekbones | Full and high, softened by plump fat pads. | Appear more prominent or harsh due to descending fat and bone loss. |
| Midface | Plump and smooth, with a gradual transition to the lower face. | Flattens and sinks due to bone resorption and fat loss. |
| Jawline | Defined and contoured. | Loses definition and develops jowls as tissues fall over the weaker bone. |
| Eye Sockets | Smaller orbital rims that support fat pads and prevent a hollow look. | Expand due to bone resorption, making eyes appear more hollowed or sunken. |
| Face Shape | Resembles an inverted triangle or heart. | Becomes more square or bottom-heavy as volume shifts downwards. |
What You Can Do to Support Your Facial Structure
While you can't stop the natural process of aging, certain practices can help slow its effects and support a more youthful appearance.
- Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which in turn speeds up the visible signs of aging. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is crucial.
- Maintain a Balanced, Nutrient-Rich Diet: A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein is essential for strong bones throughout the body, including the face. Calcium and vitamin D work together to support bone health.
- Consider Weight-Bearing Exercise: Regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing activities, helps maintain overall bone density and strength, which can benefit the skeletal structure throughout the body.
- Explore Aesthetic Treatments: For those seeking to restore lost volume, treatments like dermal fillers can add volume to the cheeks, under-eyes, and jawline. Collagen-stimulating therapies can also help rebuild and strengthen skin structure.
- Stay Hydrated and Manage Stress: Proper hydration helps keep skin plump, while managing stress can reduce the production of cortisol, a hormone that can break down collagen.
For more detailed information on healthy aging, consult resources like the National Institute on Aging at www.nia.nih.gov.
Conclusion: The Whole Picture of Facial Aging
The idea that our cheekbones get bigger with age is a common misconception, born from observing the overall changes in the aging face. The apparent prominence of the cheekbones is a side effect of a deeper, more complex process of bone resorption and soft tissue decline. By understanding the true science behind how the face ages, we can take proactive steps to maintain not only our skin but also the underlying structural support for a healthier and more graceful aging process.
