Cheek apples are the rounded, prominent areas of the cheeks that become visible and more defined when a person smiles. They are a natural feature that contributes to the facial aesthetic, particularly during expressions of happiness.
Appearance and Prominence
When you smile, especially a wide smile, the muscles in your face contract, pushing the soft tissues of your cheeks upward and outward. This action creates the characteristic rounded shape known as "cheek apples." The wider your smile, the more pronounced and noticeable these rounded areas will typically appear, giving the face a fuller, more youthful, and often cheerful look.
Underlying Anatomy
Beyond their appearance, cheek apples are intrinsically linked to the underlying facial anatomy. They are supported by the bone structure that rests below your eye and extends towards the ear. This crucial bone, known as the zygomatic bone (also called the malar bone), forms a significant part of the cheekbone.
Function of the Underlying Structure
The bone structure supporting the cheek apples plays several vital roles:
- Facial Shape: It is a primary contributor to the overall shape and contour of the mid-face.
- Muscle Attachment: It provides essential points of attachment for various jaw muscles, which are critical for movements such as chewing and speaking.
- Protection: It helps protect the delicate structures within and around the eye socket.
Understanding cheek apples encompasses both their visible characteristic during a smile and the fundamental bone structure that gives them their form and function.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Rounded shape on cheeks, particularly when smiling. |
| Prominence | Becomes more defined with a wider smile. |
| Underlying Anatomy | Supported by the bone structure below the eye, extending towards the ear. |
| Function | Gives shape to the face and provides attachment for jaw muscle movement. |
