Which bones are responsible for forming the sides of the face?

The zygomatic bones, commonly known as the cheekbones, are primarily responsible for forming the sides of the face. They contribute to both the structure and contour of the facial structure, playing a crucial role in defining the appearance of the cheeks. Situated laterally in relation to the face, the zygomatic bones connect with various other facial bones, including the maxilla (upper jaw) and the temporal bone, enhancing the overall strength and support of the facial framework.

Other bones listed, such as the palatine, nasal, and lacrimal bones, serve different functions and are located in other areas of the facial skeleton. For example, the palatine bones are part of the hard palate of the mouth, the nasal bones form the bridge of the nose, and the lacrimal bones are involved in the medial wall of the eye socket. While they contribute to the anatomy of the face, they do not specifically shape or define the sides of the face like the zygomatic bones do.