What Is Midface Projection?
Midface projection refers to how far the middle part of your face (maxilla + cheekbones) extends forward.
This includes:
- Upper jaw (maxilla)
- Cheekbones (zygoma)
- Under-eye support
Simple definition:
Midface projection = how “forward” your face looks from the side.
Why Midface Projection Matters (More Than You Think)
Strong Projection
- Sharp, clean side profile
- Defined cheekbones
- Eyes look deeper and more masculine
Weak Projection
- Flat or “sunken” face
- Under-eye hollowness
- Softer, less defined appearance
Key point:
Midface projection affects your entire face, not just one feature.
The Anatomy Behind It
Midface projection is driven by:
- Maxilla (upper jaw) → biggest factor
- Zygomatic bones (cheekbones) → width and support
- Orbital support (under eyes) → affects eye aesthetics
If the maxilla is recessed, everything behind it looks weaker.
Signs You Have Good vs Poor Midface Projection
Good Projection
- Cheekbones visible even at higher body fat
- Smooth transition from under-eye to cheek
- Strong side profile (no “dip” in middle of face)
Poor Projection
- Flat side profile
- Under-eye bags or hollowness
- Nose looks more prominent (because face is recessed)
Midface Projection and Looksmaxxing
This is one of the highest impact traits in looksmaxxing.
Why:
- It improves jawline appearance indirectly
- Makes eyes look better (hunter eyes effect)
- Enhances facial harmony
A strong midface can turn a 6 into a 7+.
Can You Improve Midface Projection?
1. Body Fat Reduction (Immediate Impact)
Lowering body fat:
- Reveals cheekbones
- Tightens facial skin
- Improves contrast
This is the fastest win.
2. Posture and Tongue Position (Mewing)
- Tongue on roof of mouth
- Proper neck posture
Reality check:
- Helps slightly over time
- Not a dramatic change for adults
3. Orthodontics (Moderate Impact)
- Expands palate
- Improves bite alignment
Can slightly improve projection, especially if bite is off.
4. Fillers (Temporary Boost)
- Cheek fillers → more projection
- Under-eye fillers → reduce hollow look
Pros:
- Fast
Cons: - Temporary
- Can look unnatural if overdone
5. Surgery (High Impact)
- LeFort osteotomy (moves maxilla forward)
- Cheekbone implants
This is the only way to truly change bone structure.
Midface Projection vs Jawline (Common Mistake)
Most people focus only on the jawline.
But:
- Weak midface = jaw looks worse
- Strong midface = jaw looks stronger
Midface comes first.
Quick Self-Test (Side Profile Check)
Take a side photo and look for:
- Does your cheek area sit forward or flat?
- Is there a dip between nose and cheek?
- Do your eyes look supported or hollow?
If it looks flat, midface projection is likely the issue.
Looksmaxxing Strategy (Simple Plan)
Step 1 (Highest ROI)
- Cut to ~10–12% body fat
- Fix skincare
Step 2
- Improve posture
- Optimize haircut (adds perceived width)
Step 3 (Optional)
- Consider fillers or orthodontics
Step 4 (Extreme)
- Surgery if you want maximum change
Realistic Expectations
- Most people can improve appearance of projection, not bone itself
- Biggest visual gains come from:
- Leanness
- Skin quality
- Lighting / angles
Why Midface Projection Is So Important
- Controls side profile
- Impacts eye attractiveness
- Affects overall facial harmony
If jawline is the “frame,”
midface is the structure holding everything together.
Related Articles
- https://looksmaxxingwiki.com/maxilla-looksmax/
- https://looksmaxxingwiki.com/hunter-eyes-looksmax/
- https://looksmaxxingwiki.com/gonial-angle-guide/
- https://looksmaxxingwiki.com/psl-explained/
Final Take
Midface projection is one of the most overlooked but powerful aspects of facial aesthetics.
You may not be able to fully change your bone structure,
but optimizing everything around it can significantly improve how your face is perceived.