Should I See an ENT Doctor For A Broken Nose? And Can I Without a Referral from a Family Doctor?

     Evaluation by an Otolaryngologist or an ear, nose, throat specialist (ENT) would be most beneficial. Most facial plastic surgeons also dedicate 5-6 years of training in the area of the nose in addition to other areas in head and neck. They have a profound understanding of the function and aesthetics of the nose. In addition you may have signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea and ENT doctors are well trained in evaluation and management of this condition. You may have more serious injury to the underlying cartilages than you think, which can cause nighttime as well as daytime symptoms. Evaluation by an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon is advised.

If you're having trouble breathing you should certainly see an ENT or a Facial Plastic Surgeon.  Facial Plastic Surgeons are Otolaryngologists/ENTs who have done extra training in Facial Plastic Surgery.

Without examining you, it's difficult to comment on whether you have had any previous fractures nor give you definite recommendations.  If you have some findings that could be improved through surgery then this could be done by an Otolaryngologist or a Facial Plastic Surgeon.  In Ontario, if you'd like your nose treated under OHIP then you'll need to have a referral from your family doctor.  This referral can be made to the provider of your choice. If your doctor suggests a septorhinoplasty (nose job) would give you the most benefit, then its up to OHIP to decide if they will approve (pay for) your procedure.  This is based on a report your doctor sends to them and typically requires photographs and a nasal airflow study proving that you have a functional nasal problem that could be improved through nasal surgery.  If OHIP does approve of your surgery, this typically would not include any cosmetic changes to your nose.  That being said, some providers can work with you to include some cosmetic changes (while they are there) for an aesthetic fee.

If the aesthetic appearance of your nose is what you are really hoping to have corrected, you can make your own referral with the provider of your choice.  Typically, cosmetic referrals have an associated cost - but this is up to the individual provider.  You can then work with your provider to come up with a surgical goal (for both the breathing and the aesthetic changes) that is attainable and will make you happy.

All the best.