Is my nose broken? If so what can be done to fix it? (Photos)

Question

My daughter threw 2 plastic figurines and they hit clipped the bridge of my nose. I have had a lingering headache and it feels like the pain is centered where my nose is. My eyes aren’t bruised and my nose didn’t bleed, it is slightly swollen but no one but me would notice. There is a red mark where it hit and I can barely touch my nose, it’s so tender. Should I go see my family physician? Is there anything they can do?

Joelle Rogal, MD · Answer

It is impossible to tell if your nose is broken without an examination from a physician.  I suggest seeing an ENT within the next week to see if the nose is broken.  Within a week, the swelling has subsided somewhat and will allow for a better examination.  If it is broken at that time, you can have a small procedure to push the nasal bones back into place.  If the bones are broken, but the nose looks okay, you may not need to have anything done.  In the meantime, you should ice the nose to help with swelling.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Trauma to the nose can cause a variety of issues such as a non-displaced nasal fracture, a displaced nasal fracture, dislocation of the upper lateral cartilages off of the nasal bones, and a deviated septum or fracture of  the septum itself. To make the diagnosis of a broken nose requires a thorough internal and external examination of the nose, in addition to x-rays. Look for a double board certified ENT/facial plastic surgeon who can evaluate both the internal functional component of your nose, in addition to straightening the external component as well.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Without an in person evaluation, it is impossible to know if your nose is broken.  Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon for confirmation.

Is my nose broken? If so what can be done to fix it? (Photos)

Answers (3)