Flying Before Fixing a Broken Nose?

Question

I was in a car accident and broke my nose in 3 places, how soon can I fly? The doctor said the bones would go back together by themselves, but I need to fly very soon, but I will be flying privately. What suggestions do you have for flying privately, and when should I see a plastic surgeon or ENT? I am finding it hard to believe I wont need surgery to realign my nose. I can breathe ok, through the swelling but when I move around alot it gets harder to breathe. I would appreciate any help, I have never broken my nose before and I dont know what to do next.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

It is not necessary to fix a broken nose if you don't suffer from any functional issues, although it sounds like you do. Flying is okay with a broken nose, though make sure to bring something along that can alleviate any breathing issues as you take off or land.

Ivan Wayne, MD · Answer

After reading your question it is clear that you have an issue that needs evaluation. See a nasal surgeon (an ENT or a plastic surgeon that does a lot nasal surgery), have your nose evaluated. As far as flying the risks are minimal. A nose bleed is the worse thing that could happen, and if you have tears inside your nose from the break this may be a possibility. Hope this helps.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If your nose is crooked and needs to be "realigned", then you might benefit from a "Closed Reduction" of your nasal fracture to attempt to restore a straight appearance. 80% of patients will not require any further intervention after a closed reduction is performed. This involves re-positioning your nasal bones with local anesthetic in the office. 5-10 days post-trauma may be favorable timing.

I hope this is helpful for you. Dr Joseph

I hope this is helpful for you. Dr Joseph

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Lmira,
Displaced nasal bones after nasal fracture should be realigned once the swelling goes down, usually about 4 to 7 days after the fracture.  So you should see an ENT or plastic surgeon for evaluation asap (before you fly, or immediately upon arrival at your destination).  Do not wait too long as the fractured bones will heal together (by about 18 days) and then it is much more difficult to straighten.  If your bones are crooked, then a closed nasal reduction (manipulation of your bones without any incisions) is indicated.  If your bones are not displaced then you do not need any immediate surgery.   It is okay to fly shortly after the trauma though there is an increased risk of nose bleed.   If you have any doubts, tell that private plane pilot to land at Van Nuys Airport and I'll come and take a look.  Safe travels.
Good luck and be well.
Dr. P

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

You take Afrin nose spray with you on the plane and tell the stewardess to let you know 10 minutes before the plane descends and spray it in your nose to prevent an ear block.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

They only concern with flying is if you develop an uncontrolled bloody nose during the flight. This would be very unusual. From your description, it sounds like you have broken your nose, had an evaluation and are waiting to see if you need surgery. When you break your nose, there are two options. First, you can have immediate surgery to realign the bones. Second, you can have a delayed surgery after all of the swelling has gone down. Either option is acceptable. If your nose is distorted, then you will most likely need surgery to realign the bones. If the shape of your nose is fine, but just swollen, then there is a chance that you will not need surgery. Anyway, you should be fine on your flight, so have a great time. Good luck.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It is acceptable to fly either privately or commercially after a broken nose. Carry a bottle of Afrin nasal spray with you on the airplane to prevent nosebleeds. See an ENT surgeon within two weeks after the injury to start the process of repairing your nose. It is also important to make sure you do not have a septal hematoma from the injury. Avoid flying for at least a week after any nasal surgery to repair the broken nose.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Flying after breaking your nose should be ok, but you may feel fairly congested. You may want to take a decongestant prior to flying. As for fixing the nasal fractures. If your shape looks ok and is not distorted then you probably are OK.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

It sounds like you have not seen a ENT or Plastic surgeon. If not than why ask you questions here? GO SEE a boarded doctor NOW!
From MIAMI Dr. B

Peter A. Aldea, MD · Answer

Being in New York there should be no shortage of Nose professionals to examine you. I would seriously recommend you see one to determine if replacing the nasal bones back ("Closed Reduction") is needed as it should be done within 7-10 days from the injury and an examination of the septum is in order to make sure you did not develop a blood collection (Septal Hematoma) there which must be drained immediately.
In general, your situation is different than someone who spent a few hours on an operating room table and has not moved much after-wards (making them prone to developing clots) who then compounds this with a long dehydrating, immobile trip greatly increasing the likelihood of such clots traveling to the lungs (Pulmonary embolus). In your case, you may have nasal dryness and or bleeding as a rare potential complications of a flight. I would focus on getting a competent nose exam instead to plan the PROPER management of the fracture.

Flying Before Fixing a Broken Nose?

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