What kind of bones are cheekbones referred to as?

Cheekbones are referred to as malar bones, which are also known as zygomatic bones. These bones form the prominence of the cheeks and play a vital role in the structure of the face. They provide support for the eyes and contribute to the formation of the orbit, the cavity that houses the eyeball. Malar bones are important for both aesthetics and protection of the facial structures. Their position can influence facial contour and symmetry, which are key aspects in esthetics and cosmetic practices.

In relation to the other options, maxillary bones are the upper jawbones that also hold the teeth, frontal bones make up the forehead area and portions of the eye sockets, while nasal bones are the small bones forming the bridge of the nose. Each of these has a distinct anatomical and functional role that differs from that of the malar bones.