Fractured Nose: Callous Formation or Bone?

Question

I fractured my nose 5 days ago. The healing process has been surprisingly quick; swelling has subsided and pain is minimal. However, there is a bump on the right side of my nose. In the right light, the bump creates the illusion that my nose is slightly crooked. So my quesion is: Is this bump most likely a callous formation, or the actual piece of bone that was displaced on impact? In most cases, are these types of bumps permanent, or is it typical of them to gradually retreat? Thank you!

Colin Pero, MD, FACS · Answer

It depends on whether your fracture is displaced or if it broke and then the pieces remained in the same pre-injury location. If they are displaced, it could be that you are actually seeing the bone fragment sticking up. Without x-rays and an exam, it is impossible to tell you for sure.

Pouria Moradi, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

After a nasal fracture you have to let the swelling settle and assess the alignment of the nose properly. No rush jumping in too early. Wait 1 week and then seek the advise of a plastic surgeon. You can perform a closed reduction up to 2 weeks post trauma.

	The "bump" you see is likely either soft tissue swelling or the displaced bone. Too early for callous formation.

	 

	Good luck.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It is best to have a consultation and examination in person to determine the extent of the fractures and to get an x-ray for medical documentation. Repair of the nasal fracture will need to be performed under general anesthesia and shaving down the bump also need to be performed at the same time. The bump that just occurred is most likely a bony protuberance related to the fracture and not a callous formation. Callus formation takes years to develop, not 5 days. Digital computer imaging would be helpful to understand what can be accomplished with a rhinoplasty procedure. Please see the link below to our rhinoplasty photo gallery for examples of nasal fractures and hump removal.

Fractured Nose: Callous Formation or Bone?

Answers (3)