Developed a lump after breaking my nose at the bridge. What could it be?

Question

After breaking my nose at the bridge. I develop a lump on it, but day to day after it changes. I can push it flat. So what would This be? And how come I can push it flat but almost the next few hours it returns...

R. Scott Yarish, MD · Answer

Swelling, particularly at the bridge of the nose, is a common result of nasal trauma, whether or not there is an actual fracture.  Initially, it is important to use ice and elevation, just like in any other broken or bruised bone.  Early swelling that can be compressed, as in your case, will at least partially resolve.  However, pressure taping will help it resolve more quickly and more completely.  If the swelling persists and becomes firm, scar tissue has developed.  A small injection of steroids should help some.  Frequently, however, this scar tissue becomes permanent and requires surgical correction.

Garrett H. Bennett, MD · Answer

When the nasal bones are broken there can be bleeding and swelling that lift the layer on top of the bone. This space is probably what moves and goes away when you press on your nose. New bone can form in this space and form a permanent bump. Injection of steroids in the space may decrease the swelling and decrease new bone formation.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

Of course, this is difficult to know without photos and exam, but because you can flatten it and because it returns slowly it may just be inflammation/swelling. It could be a small pice of bone/cartilage though, in my opinion, lass likely so. At any rate, an initial exam by a plastic surgeon possibly followed by another exam a few weeks/months later should help identify the cause and the treatment options----IF it persists.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Nasal trauma can cause a fracture of the nasal bones with and without displacement of them. Trauma can also cause cartilage in the nose to be fractured off of the nasal bones. Anytime there is trauma to the nose, a callous formation can occur at the site of the injury. If this is permanent,  then a hump removal is performed at the time of your rhinoplasty.

Developed a lump after breaking my nose at the bridge. What could it be?

Answers (4)

Answer: Broken nose repair candidate

Answer: Broken nose repair candidate

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Developed a lump after breaking my nose at the bridge. What could it be?

Answers (4)

Answer: Broken nose repair candidate

Answer: Broken nose repair candidate

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.