Is it possible to straighten out a broken nose yourself?

Question

I got in a fight about two weeks ago and I think I may have broken my nose. It seems a little crooked. The swelling is just now starting to subside. It feels like there is still mobility in the bone. It is hard to tell it is crooked but you can tell. There was blood at the time of break. I can breathe fine and I am not severe pain. Just a little soreness. Can I fix this myself? And how can I do it? Otherwise I will let it heal.

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

I strongly recommend evaluation by an expert to determine whether or not surgery is necessary.  In some situations surgery is not required whereas in others surgery needs to be performed.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

We perform closed reductions of nasal fractures when there is a crooked appearance after nasal trauma, but this may only be feasible within 10-14 days. After 2 weeks, the bones may become immobile. Consider consulting with a reputable ENT or facial plastic surgeon. Thank you. Dr Joseph

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Trauma to the nose can result in a displaced nasal fracture and  fracture of the upper lateral cartilages  off of the nasal bones.  In many instances, a fracture of the nasal septum occurs which is called a deviated nasal septum which blocks airflow. It is important to document the extent of the fracture and have an examination and consultation  with x-rays to document any internal nasal fractures as well.  Re-setting the nasal bones straight requires placement of osteotomies in the nasal bones, and sometimes  a spreader graft placed underneath the concave upper lateral cartilage that  are fractured inward. This is also known as an open reduction of a nasal fracture. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient surgical procedure, and then a cast is applied across the nose afterwards for one week. For many examples of broken nose repair in our practice,  please see  the link and the video below

Is it possible to straighten out a broken nose yourself?

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Is it possible to straighten out a broken nose yourself?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Nonsurgical Nose Job

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.