The Anatomy of Facial Aging: The 'Inside-Out' Process
For many years, facial aging was primarily attributed to the effects of gravity on the skin and muscles. However, modern scientific understanding reveals that the process begins from the "inside out," with significant changes occurring at the deepest layers—the bone and soft tissue. The zygomatic bones, which form the cheekbones, are part of a dynamic system that undergoes continuous remodeling throughout life.
Bone Resorption and Remodeling
One of the most surprising aspects of facial aging is bone resorption. Studies have shown that specific areas of the facial skeleton, including the midface (maxilla) and parts of the orbital rims, experience a gradual loss of bone mass. While these changes are small, often measured in millimeters, their cumulative effect on the overall facial structure is dramatic. The shrinking bony foundation provides less support for the overlying tissues, contributing to changes in contour and shape. Instead of the cheekbones growing more prominent, the support system beneath them is actually diminishing.
The Shift of Facial Fat Pads
In our youth, facial fat is abundant and evenly distributed in well-defined compartments that provide a full, smooth contour. These fat pads, especially the malar fat pads located in the cheeks, descend and lose volume with age. The result is that areas that once appeared full and rounded begin to appear sunken or hollow. The descent of the malar fat pads also contributes to the formation of deeper nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth) and hollows under the eyes.
The Decline of Skin Elasticity and Muscle Tone
As we age, the skin's production of collagen and elastin—the proteins responsible for its firmness and elasticity—slows down significantly. This loss of support and structure, combined with gravity, causes the skin to sag and loosen. The loss of muscle tone also plays a role, with facial muscles weakening and becoming less resilient over time. The combination of descending fat and sagging skin creates new shadows and contours, which can give the optical illusion of sharper, more prominent cheekbones as the soft tissue falls away from the bony ridge.
Comparison of Youthful and Aged Facial Structure
| Feature | Youthful Face | Aged Face |
|---|---|---|
| Cheekbone Appearance | Fuller cheeks with a smooth, soft contour, creating a "triangle of youth" with the base at the cheeks and the apex at the chin. | More defined or gaunt appearance as fat pads shrink and descend, often inverting the "triangle of youth". |
| Facial Fat | Evenly distributed fat pads providing volume and a rounded shape. | Loss of volume in the midface and temples, and descent of fat pads, leading to hollows and sagging. |
| Skin | High elasticity and firmness due to abundant collagen and elastin. | Reduced elasticity, causing skin to appear loose, saggy, and less plump. |
| Facial Bones | Stable and supportive skeletal structure. | Resorption of bone, particularly in the midface and orbital rims, reduces structural support. |
| Jawline | Defined and contoured, with a tight jawline. | Less defined and prone to sagging (jowls) as soft tissues descend. |
Lifestyle Factors and Their Impact
While genetics play a significant role in determining how we age, certain lifestyle factors can either accelerate or slow down the process.
Factors that accelerate facial aging:
- Excessive sun exposure (photoaging)
- Smoking, which damages collagen and elastin
- Poor nutrition and an unhealthy diet
- Dehydration and excessive alcohol consumption, which lead to fluid retention and puffiness
- Chronic stress and lack of adequate sleep
- Significant and rapid weight loss, which can decrease facial fat and enhance a gaunt appearance
Enhancing the Appearance of Cheekbones
For those who wish to achieve a more defined cheekbone look, several options exist, ranging from non-invasive techniques to cosmetic procedures. These methods work by addressing the soft tissue changes that occur with aging.
Non-invasive methods:
- Contouring Makeup: Strategically applying bronzer and highlighter can create the illusion of more defined cheekbones.
- Facial Exercises: Toning facial muscles may provide a subtle lift and improve contour over time.
- Microcurrent Devices: These devices use low-level electrical currents to stimulate and tone facial muscles, potentially improving definition and lift.
- Staying Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can minimize fluid retention and puffiness, helping to reveal natural facial contours.
Cosmetic procedures:
- Dermal Fillers: Injectable fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, can be used to restore lost volume in the cheeks, recreating a more youthful fullness.
- Cheek Implants: Surgical implants provide a permanent solution for cheek augmentation.
- Fat Grafting: This procedure involves transferring fat from another area of the body to the face to restore volume.
- Buccal Fat Removal: This surgical option reduces the fullness in the lower part of the cheek, which can accentuate the cheekbones.
Conclusion
In summary, the perception that your cheekbones get more prominent as you age is a complex phenomenon driven by changes in facial fat, bone structure, and skin elasticity. It is not a sign of bone growth but rather the result of tissues receding and sagging, revealing the underlying skeleton more clearly. Understanding these changes empowers individuals to make informed decisions about skincare and cosmetic procedures, or to simply appreciate the natural and evolving contours of their face. For deeper information on facial anatomy and aging, consult authoritative sources like the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
