Can a collapsed nose heal over time?

Question

If cartilage in the nose is weakened or out of place (septum, upper lateral cartilages, lower lateral cartilages), can this change over time? I have heard of cartilage moving AFTER rhinoplasty so why not after trauma. If this is possible how long does it take? Surely if your nose is in an incorrect position, won't it try to fix itslef?

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear rosieIn general, scar contracture and lack of stability of underlying structures leads to longterm changes after a rhinoplasty. This is usually not present after trauma. With the typical nasal fracture, you have displacement of structures but not instability and significant contracture. If at 12 weeks after trauma you still have nasal deformity, you will likely need surgery for correction.

Barry M. Weintraub, MD, FACS · Answer

Without photos, it is difficult to respond specifically. Theoretically, though, if you have a collapsed nose, the cartilage has been removed or weakened, and it will not "correct itself." Generally, in situations such as yours, the condition only gets worse due to the lack of proper support or placement.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Once the nose has been traumatized, fractured and collapsed, it will permanently stay in that position until a rhinoplasty procedure can make the required changes to straighten it. For many examples of straightening a crooked nose, please see the video and  the link below

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Collapse of the nose following trauma not likely to improve with time. However, medical insurance may be available to correct your injured nose. Please see examples below and make a consultation to discuss details.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Cartilage can shift after untreated trauma but this is far less likely after a rhinoplasty. It is optimistic to hope that the nose will shift back to normal after an injury.

Can a collapsed nose heal over time?

Answers (5)