Skull · Irregular bone
Zygomatic Bone (Cheekbone)
The zygomatic bones are the cheekbones. They give the face its shape, form part of the eye sockets, and create the bony arch below each eye.
What it is
The zygomatic bones are the paired cheekbones, forming the prominence of the cheek and part of the outer eye socket.
Where it is
The upper cheeks, below and to the side of the eyes.
What it does
Shape the cheeks and face, form part of the eye socket and the arch that muscles of chewing pass under.
Connections
Joints and connections
- Sutures with the maxilla, temporal, frontal and sphenoid bones
When things go wrong
Common injuries and conditions
- Cheekbone (zygomatic) fracture — a common facial fracture after a blow to the face
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms; it is not a diagnosis. A severe injury, a visibly deformed limb, or the inability to move or bear weight needs urgent assessment — call 999 or go to A&E for a serious injury.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
Prominent cheekbones are largely down to the shape and projection of the zygomatic bones.
Answers
Zygomatic Bone: frequently asked questions
What is the cheekbone called?
The cheekbone is the zygomatic bone. It shapes the cheek and forms part of the eye socket.
Explore the skull
Related bones
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake, Vogl, Mitchell)
- TeachMeAnatomy — skeletal system
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