How long should congestion last following a broken nose? (Photo)

Question

If congestion doesn't clear up after a certain time, does that mean that there is permanent damage/breathing problems? What is typical time frame where congestion should subside? My 9 yr old sustained a broken nose Sept 1st, had reduction surgery Sept 9th. Not even sure surgery corrected anything, nose looks same to me. Hard bump on side & dorsal hump still visible. ENT said he did his best to straighten & pushed deviated septum back in place. He's still a bit congested as of today. Should I be concerned?

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello takel,Thanks for your question.Nasal congestion after fracture reduction could last a few months.  I recommend the use of a cool mist humidifier and nasal saline washes to keep the area moist.  This can reduce the sense of blockage and make him less likely to breathe through his mouth when he sleeps.  If he keeps his head up when he sleeps, this might help reduce the swelling and congestion.  Ultimately time will tell.  If 4-6 months have passed and he still feels like his airflow is reduced, then he may need some type of reconstructive nasal surgery to open up the nasal passageways further.  Unless he is really suffering, I would wait until his facial bones have stopped growing to get a reconstruction.Keep in touch with your ENT and you will get your answer in a few months.  Be patient.Good luck,Dr. Shah

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Congestion for a few weeks after trauma and surgery is normal and you should not be concerned.  If the nasal trauma did fracture the septum and cause a visible deformity, it may be that only a septoplasty would correct this.  However at 9 years of age, his facial bones are still growing and surgery may best be postponed till his mid or late teens.

Jan Zemplenyi, MD · Answer

Congestion is usually due to swollen tissues and will subside as the swelling resolves in several weeks following the surgery. On the other hand, obstruction due to a deviated septum or other displaced structures may last until addressed with further surgical correction. I would wait for at least three months before proceeding with further operative treatment. Follow-up with your doctor.

J. Jared Christophel, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Regarding the nasal obstruction, it is still way to early to say the congestion is to persistently deviated septum or displaced nasal bones.  Would give congestion 6 weeks prior to making that conclusion.  If he does have slight deformity or some obstruction, may need corrective surgery once he is done growing.  Typically don't want to perform "open" surgery on child's nose as it may disrupt the growth centers of the nose.

Timothy Minton, MD · Answer

The congestion could be from swelling both from the injury and the surgery to reduce the fracture.  It could last 4-6 weeks.  If after that time there is significant congestion - especially if on one side only, I would be concerned that there is a persistent deviation of the septum and/or nasal bones.

How long should congestion last following a broken nose? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Congestion after nasal fracture reduction

Answer: Congestion after nasal fracture reduction

Answer: Congestion after nasal injury

Answer: Congestion after nasal injury

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How long should congestion last following a broken nose? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Congestion after nasal fracture reduction

Answer: Congestion after nasal fracture reduction

Answer: Congestion after nasal injury

Answer: Congestion after nasal injury

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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.