Hit hard in nose about 2 wks ago from the side. Do I need surgery ASAP to repair or wait? Will it heal without surgery?

Photos would be helpful in evaluating your case.  If you do require surgery, you don't necessarily need a cartilage graft. It depends on what the specific problem is and that would require an in person exam. Unless your nose is obviously crooked from the injury, you should wait until the swelling resolves.  If it is crooked, then the bones have been broken and it should be straightened, but that should not require a cartilage graft.

Often, nasal fractures can be reduced without surgery during the first week following the injury. Since you're outside that window now would be a good time to seek a consultation with a nasal surgery expert. Most rhinoplasty surgeons will let your nose heal for several months prior to performing rhinoplasty to remedy the damage from your injury. For a primary rhinoplasty, ear cartilage is rarely necessary. Cartilage, if needed, can be obtained from your nasal septum. I hope this information is helpful.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

An exam is needed to see if this is old or new and how your airway is compromised. See an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon for the best results.

Hello,I am sorry to hear about your injury.  There are two schools of thought regarding repair of displaced nasal fractures. First I will digress by saying that fracture of the nasal bones is irrelevant unless it is visibly deformed, and then it is obvious and doesn't require an elaborate CT scan to document.One school of thought is to reduce and align the nasal bones early, within the first week.  However, there is a high rate of reoperation in this group, mostly due to persistent defects.  I choose this route if the deformity and/or loss of function is severe and the patient will be ameliorated by doing so.The other school of thought is to wait 3 to 6 months to allow healing and resolution of swelling. This will allow a better idea of the extent of deformity and will allow a better repair.  If you are at the two week mark, then you would still fall into one category or the other depending on the severity of your nasal appearance or function.You should be evaluated regardless so that you can get the best advice possible.  It matters not whether you choose a board certified facial plastic surgeon or general plastic surgeon.  Both have excellent training in this matter.  What matters more is experience. Best of luck!

   Really these questions need to be answered after an exam.Find a board certified plastic surgeon who has performed hundreds of rhinoplasties. Look for great reviews and great before
and after pictures.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA