Can you break your nose without it hurting? I had nose trauma and I've had a deviated septum ever since. Can this be fixed?

Popoppy20,It is possible that you fractured your septum without bleeding occurring. Your difficulty in breathing from your right nostril may have been caused by a slight deviation within your nose caused by the trauma that may not be noticeable on the outside. I recommend making a consultation to get it checked out and discuss your options to fix the problem.Best of Luck,Dr. Ali Sajjadian

Your nasal trauma could have caused cartilage to fracture and deviate, but without mucosal tear causing bleeding. In fact, subperichondrial bleeding can cause abnormal cartilage thickening and growth (like cauliflower ear in wrestlers), or other anatomic issues. Nasal pain need not accompany injuries severe enough to cause breathing problems or airway issues, though it is somewhat unusual. Maybe you're just tough, or at least tougher than your nasal septal cartilage!After a year, this damage is not going to "go away" on its own. You need a plastic surgical or ENT expert in rhinoplasty to examine your internal nasal anatomy and recommend ways to improve or restore your airway. If you are not interested in cosmetic changes to your nose, this is considered functional or reconstructive surgery to restore or improve function, and is generally covered by your (or your parents') insurance. Make an appointment with a qualified expert in rhinoplasty surgery and ask your parents about their insurance requirements first. You will need their consent anyway for surgery to proceed (until you are 18). Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Hi P,Sorry you are having trouble breathing.  If you hit your nose and get bleeding, then by definition, you have a broken nose.  But it is not the other way around, like in your case.  You probably displaced some internal cartilage and bone.  However the humidifiers can block airflow also.  So have a nasal surgery specialist see you for a look see.  All the best, "Dr. Joe"

Dear popoppy20,I answered your other question as wellYou can fracture the septum without breaking your nose, and it can cause a deviated septumIf it has been over a year, it will likely not go awayYou should have an exam and get checked outThen all of your questions can be answeredAnd bring your insurance card (if you have one) as this procedure is usually covered by insurance Best regards,Nima Shemirani

It is possible to have injury without significant pain, albeit rare.   After one year it probably will not improve.  An examination and possibly a CT scan can determine the extent of the fracture and deviation. From there your surgeon can suggest a plan which can include surgery. If your airway is not compromised then you can decide if you want a procedure to correct the external appearance of the fracture or deviation of the nose. Insurance often pays for the procedure if there is significant airway restriction. Best of luck. Dr. Michael Omidi