Understanding the 'Triangle of Youth'
At the core of understanding facial aging is the concept of the "Triangle of Youth." In a youthful face, the volume is concentrated in the upper and outer parts of the face, with the high point of the triangle resting at the cheeks and the base at the chin. This creates a full, heart-shaped or oval appearance. High, prominent cheekbones contribute to this youthful shape by providing a strong, defined structure to the mid-face.
As we age, this triangle begins to invert. Gravity, along with the natural loss of facial fat and collagen, causes volume to shift downwards. This leads to sagging jowls, a less defined jawline, and a flattening or hollowing of the cheeks. In this scenario, it is the loss of surrounding facial volume, not the cheekbones themselves, that contributes to an aged appearance.
How Facial Volume Loss Affects Cheekbones
As we get older, we lose volume in two primary ways: the deflation of fat pads and the absorption of bone. The malar fat pads, which sit over the cheekbones, lose their plumpness and descend over time. This can cause the cheekbones to appear more prominent, but also creates a hollowing effect below them. This sunken look is often what people mistake for the cheekbones themselves causing an older appearance.
The Role of Bone Density
Beyond fat loss, the underlying facial skeleton undergoes significant changes. Studies using CT scans have shown that with age, the orbits (eye sockets) enlarge and the jawline and cheekbones lose volume. This change in bone structure impacts the way skin and muscle are supported. A more defined, youthful bone structure provides a strong scaffold, whereas the loss of bone density can exacerbate the effects of sagging and wrinkling.
The Genetic Factor
Genetics play a profound role in how our faces age. Some individuals are naturally blessed with high, prominent cheekbones and an abundance of facial fat that is resistant to loss. These individuals often maintain a youthful appearance longer, as their robust facial structure provides greater support against the effects of gravity. For others, a genetically less defined bone structure or a natural predisposition to facial fat loss can lead to earlier signs of aging. It is not the cheekbones themselves, but the overall genetic blueprint for facial structure and volume, that determines how one's face changes over time.
Comparison: Youthful vs. Aged Cheek Appearance
| Aspect | Youthful Cheeks | Aged Cheeks |
|---|---|---|
| Cheek Volume | Plump and full, creating a smooth convexity. | Flattened or hollowed, with descending fat pads. |
| Cheekbone Prominence | Often defined by the surrounding plump skin and fat. | Can appear more prominent due to surrounding volume loss. |
| Facial Contour | Overall heart-shaped, with a wider upper face and defined jaw. | Inverted triangle, with less defined cheeks and wider lower face. |
| Skin Tightness | Firm and elastic, with minimal sagging. | Looser skin that sags around the mid-face and jawline. |
| Shadowing | Subtle shading that defines the cheek structure. | Increased shadowing in the hollows below the cheekbones. |
Counteracting the Effects of Aging on the Cheeks
While we cannot stop the natural aging process, there are several ways to address the changes that affect the appearance of our cheekbones.
Cosmetic Procedures
- Dermal Fillers: Injectable fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, can restore lost volume to the cheeks, re-establishing the youthful convex shape and lifting the mid-face.
- Cheek Implants: For a more permanent solution, cheek implants can be surgically placed to enhance cheekbone prominence and volume.
- Fat Grafting: This procedure involves transferring fat from another part of the body to the face to restore lost volume.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Radiofrequency Treatments: Devices like Morpheus8 use microneedling and radiofrequency to stimulate collagen production, tightening the skin and improving facial contour.
- Ultherapy: This non-invasive treatment uses ultrasound energy to lift and tighten skin on the face, neck, and chest.
Lifestyle and Skincare
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, hydration, and regular exercise contribute to overall skin health and can help preserve a youthful appearance.
- Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Sun exposure is a major contributor to premature aging, including the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Use sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
- Facial Exercises: While their effectiveness is debated, some believe that targeted facial exercises can help tone muscles and improve facial firmness.
Conclusion: The Bigger Picture
In conclusion, the idea that prominent cheekbones make you look older is a common misconception. The truth is more nuanced: it is the redistribution of facial fat and the underlying loss of bone density that can cause a more angular or gaunt appearance associated with aging. Prominent cheekbones often serve to resist these effects, keeping the face looking lifted and youthful for longer. By understanding these complex changes, we can focus on strategies that support overall facial volume and skin health, rather than blaming one specific feature for the signs of aging. For those interested in cosmetic options, consulting with a board-certified professional is the best way to develop a personalized treatment plan for healthy aging For more information on facial aging and cosmetic options, visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website.
