Flat Cheekbones? Causes and How to Achieve a More Defined Look

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “I have no cheekbones,” you’re not alone. Many people feel like their mid-face appears flat or lacks definition, and they aren’t sure why—or what to do about it. This blog will break down the common causes of flat cheekbones and explore both non-surgical and surgical options to help you achieve a more sculpted, balanced look.

What Are Flat Cheekbones?

When someone says they have “flat cheekbones,” they’re usually referring to a lack of projection or contour in the mid-face area. This can result in a softer or rounder facial shape, especially when compared to the more angular look of high cheekbones.

In contrast, people with prominent cheekbones often have a more defined facial structure that casts natural shadows and adds visual lift to the face. But if you have flat cheeks or a flatter mid-face, it doesn’t mean something is wrong—it’s often just a normal part of your bone structure. And while social media filters and photo lighting might make high cheekbones seem like the standard, there’s a wide range of natural facial shapes.

Why Some People Have a Flat Cheekbone Appearance

Genetics

For many people, cheekbone structure is simply something they’re born with. If your parents or grandparents had a flatter mid-face, you may have inherited the same facial proportions. A naturally flatter cheek area is also common in some ethnicities and facial types, and it’s completely normal. This is often what people are referring to when they talk about a “flat mid face.”

Aging

As we age, we tend to lose fat and bone volume in the face—especially around the cheeks. This loss can create a hollow or sunken look that makes the cheekbones appear less defined. Skin may also sag as collagen decreases, further softening facial contours. This process can happen gradually, even if you once had well-defined cheekbones in your youth.

Structural or Developmental Causes

In some cases, flat cheekbones may be tied to developmental factors. Certain facial growth patterns or conditions—sometimes casually referred to as “flat face syndrome”—can affect the way the mid-face develops. In these instances, people might explore what’s sometimes called “flat face surgery” to restore facial balance or address functional concerns, though that term is typically used informally and not as a medical diagnosis.

Non-Surgical Ways to Enhance Flat Cheekbones

Many people start with non-surgical solutions to improve facial definition. These options offer noticeable results without the downtime or commitment of surgery.

Makeup Contouring

Contouring with makeup is a popular way to give the illusion of defined cheekbones. By applying darker shades below the cheekbones and highlighting the high points of the face, you can mimic the shadows and structure created by more prominent bone structure. This is a go-to option for events, photos, or just a confidence boost.

But as effective as makeup can be, it only lasts until you wash your face—and it can be difficult to get consistent results. That’s where treatments like dermal fillers come in: they offer longer-lasting enhancement without the need for surgery.

Dermal Fillers

Injectable fillers like JUVÉDERM® are one of the most popular ways to add volume and shape to flat cheekbones. They can enhance your natural features by lifting the cheek area, restoring youthful volume, and subtly reshaping the mid-face.

Results are immediate and typically last 12–18 months. Best of all, fillers are non-surgical and customizable based on your unique anatomy and goals. Whether you’ve always wanted to know how to get cheekbones or you’re simply looking for a refresh, fillers offer a flexible option with minimal downtime.

When a More Lasting Solution Is Needed

While fillers are a great place to start, they aren’t for everyone. Some patients want a more permanent or dramatic transformation—or they’re dealing with age-related changes that fillers alone can’t fix. In those cases, surgical options can offer longer-lasting and more defined results.

Cheek Implants

Cheek implants are designed to enhance the structure of the face by adding volume directly over the cheekbones. These implants are custom-shaped and surgically placed, often through small incisions inside the mouth or along the eyelid.

This option is ideal for patients with naturally flat cheekbones or significant asymmetry who want a permanent solution. Unlike fillers, implants don’t fade over time and can provide a consistent, sculpted contour for years to come.

Facelift with Cheek Enhancement

A facelift isn’t just about lifting the jawline—it can also elevate the cheeks, restore mid-face volume, and reduce sagging. For patients whose flat cheekbones are the result of aging, a facelift can reposition underlying tissues and improve the overall facial structure.

At Gulf Coast Facial Plastics, facelift procedures are often combined with other enhancements, such as fat grafting or cheek implants, to further define the cheeks. When performed by a facial specialist like Dr. Daniel Daube, results are natural-looking and balanced—not tight or artificial.
Learn more about facelift procedures here.

How Gulf Coast Facial Plastics Approaches Cheek Enhancement

Dr. Daniel Daube is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with specialized training in ENT and facial anatomy. This dual expertise allows him to take a precise and personalized approach to cheek enhancement—whether you’re looking for subtle volume or a complete structural transformation.

He offers a full range of options, from non-surgical treatments like injectable fillers to advanced surgical techniques including facelifts and cheek implants. Every treatment plan is designed around your goals, lifestyle, and facial features.

Not Sure What’s Right for You? Start with a Consultation

Every face is different—and that’s a good thing. Whether you’re noticing changes due to aging or have always felt like your mid-face lacks definition, there are options available to help you feel more confident.

If you’re ready to explore your options, schedule a personalized consultation at Gulf Coast Facial Plastics in Panama City today.