Yes, cheekbones do grow during puberty, especially in males as a result of hormonal changes.
During the significant developmental stage of puberty, the human face undergoes substantial changes, driven by hormonal shifts. These changes aren't limited to soft tissues but also involve the growth and reshaping of facial bones.
Facial Bone Growth in Puberty
Puberty is a critical period for skeletal development throughout the body, including the facial structure. The growth patterns are influenced by sex hormones, leading to distinct changes in male and female faces.
Cheekbone Development in Males
Based on research, in pubertal males, the growth of cheekbones is notably facilitated by a high testosterone-to-estrogen ratio. This hormonal environment promotes the expansion of certain facial bones.
According to relevant studies:
- In pubertal males, facilitated by a high testosterone-to-estrogen ratio, the cheekbones, mandibles and chin grow laterally, the bones of the eyebrow ridges and central face grow forward, and the lower facial bones lengthen.
This indicates that the cheekbones specifically grow laterally, meaning they widen or expand outwards, contributing to the characteristic broadening of the male face during adolescence.
Other facial bone changes observed in pubertal males include:
- Lateral growth of the mandibles (lower jaw) and chin.
- Forward growth of the eyebrow ridges and the central face.
- Lengthening of the lower facial bones.
These combined changes result in a more prominent and defined facial structure often associated with male maturation.
The Role of Hormones
The balance and levels of sex hormones, primarily testosterone and estrogen, play a crucial role in directing bone growth patterns during puberty. A high testosterone-to-estrogen ratio in males stimulates the growth of specific bone areas, including the cheekbones, contributing to the development of secondary sexual characteristics in facial structure.
Understanding these changes provides insight into how the face transforms from childhood to adulthood under the influence of puberty.
