Great Maxilla Gives Great Cheekbones

Outstanding midface development directly shapes the cheekbones, because the maxilla articulates with the zygomatic bones (the anatomical cheekbones). The growth of one (the maxilla) directly pulls or pushes the other (the zygoma).  The maxilla has a specific "arm" of bone called the zygomatic process that reaches out to grab the cheekbone.

When this "arm" is thick and positioned forward, it creates high, prominent cheekbones and a full “midface."  If the maxilla grows recessed (melted backward), that "arm" sits further back, which makes the cheekbones look flat, sunken, or non-existent. 

If the maxilla grows robustly forward and wide, it acts as a structural engine that drives the cheekbones forward and outward with itvia the zygomatic process. When the maxilla grows forward and upward, it provides a stable foundation that pushes these bones into a more prominent and aesthetic position. 

The key cheekbone characteristics of a well developed midface are:

In well-developed faces, the zygomatic bones are positioned higher, often level with or just below the bridge of the nose rather than near the nostrils.

The maxilla forms the lower part of the eye sockets. The up-and-forward scaffolding of healthy maxillary development ensures the cheekbones provide strong support for the eyes, which greatly reduces the tired, slower appearance. There is less ”sclera show" (the visible white area below the iris). A forward-grown midface directly contribute to a more alert look of the eyes.

The maxilla's forward position creates a the cheekbone prominence known as the malar eminence— a key anatomical landmark for facial aesthetics. It largely determines the shape of the midface. This gives the midface an chiseled, 3D quality with horizontal volume rather than a flat or sunken appearance. 

High molar eminence and cheekbones are desirable because when the bones are positioned forward and high, they create natural "shadows" in the the area below the cheekbones (the sub-malar region). 

A well-developed maxilla creates a soft, elegant  "S" shape (Ogee Curve) when the face is viewed from a three-quarter side profile. With an Ogee curve, the cheekbone come outward before tapering toward the jawline (the hollow cheeks that so many try to mimic with contouring make-up) This curve depends entirely on the maxilla providing enough horizontal structure to support the soft tissues (fat and skin). Without that volume of good maxillary growth, the face lacks the skeletal ledge needed to create a defined cheek line.

The structural prominence of a well-developed maxilla acts as a "hanger" for facial fat and skin, which can delay the sagging associated with aging.

Forward and upward maxillary development is also associated with a wide palate and dental arch. This width gives to a broader, more balanced midface, as the zygomatic bones flare slightly outward to maintain facial proportion.

Your cheekbones are only as prominent as the jawbone supporting them. A "well-grown" maxilla brings the cheekbones into the spotlight, while an underdeveloped maxilla leaves them hidden and flat.