What are the smallest and most fragile bones of the face called?

The smallest and most fragile bones of the face are indeed the lacrimal bones. These two small, paired bones are located in the medial wall of each eye socket (orbit) and play a crucial role in forming the structure around the eyes. Their delicate nature makes them particularly susceptible to fractures, which is why they are recognized for being both the smallest and the most fragile among the facial bones.

In contrast, the maxillae, nasal bones, and zygomatic bones are larger and generally provide more structural support to the face. The maxillae form the upper jaw and hold the upper teeth, while the nasal bones support the bridge of the nose. The zygomatic bones, often referred to as the cheekbones, contribute significantly to the facial structure and are larger and more robust than the lacrimal bones. These distinctions highlight the unique characteristics and functions of each type of bone within the framework of the facial skeleton.