Broken Nose a Year Ago and New Soft Bump, is It Permanent, Rhinoplasty Options?

Question

11 months since I broke my nose. The break came after an impact to the right side of my nose that left a mild dent. Also, weirdly enough, I formed a new SOFT little bump that is visible from my right profile. My Q's: -Is this new bump permanent? It is soft bone and when I press on it it goes away. Could it be swelling? I periodically "flatten it out" and wonder if it would go away if I left it alone. -Am I a good candidate for reconstructive rhinosplasty and what are the options?

Umang Mehta, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. After a broken nose, the nasal bones can appear indented, widened, deviated to the side or unchanged, depending on the location of the nasal fracture and the direction and force of the impact. After a broken nose, the hump on the bridge can certainly appear enlarged. Typically in these cases, the bump on the nose is firm, as it is due to the shape of the underlying bone or cartilage. It is challenging to evaluate the "soft bump" you are describing without examining you in person. By 11 months out from your fracture, I would expect that any focal area of swelling would have resolved. I would recommend that you seek a consultation with a rhinoplasty surgeon to determine the cause of this irregularity on your bridge and whether you would be a candidate for reconstructive rhinoplasty or some other intervention. 

	Regards,

	Dr. Mehta

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

IT sounds as if you may have a small cyst or fluid collection or edema as the site of the fracture. Revision may require drainage or excision. The dent or depression may require a camouflage graft.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

You need to see an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who can examine your nose and discuss your options.

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

Dear SF67,

	This is most likely due to the injury; however, any swelling should have resolved by now.  Knowing the exact cause of the bump is tough to know without the ability to examine you, so I would encourage you to be evaluated by an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who can provide advise on how to proceed.

	Good luck!

Daniel Reichner, MD, FACS · Answer

For the best cosmetic outcome, It is best to treat nasal fractures as soon after the accident as possible. The new soft bump on your nose could be nasal cartilage or scar tissue. This is best treated with a standard rhinoplasty.

Broken Nose a Year Ago and New Soft Bump, is It Permanent, Rhinoplasty Options?

Answers (9)