The cartilage in my nose had drastically thinned and developed a hole. How can this be fixed?

It's important that you schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to fully address all of your needs when it comes to nasal septal perforation.  I hope my video helps you understand more what is involved with nasal septal perforation surgery.

Septal perforations can, in most cases, be repaired. The exception would be very large perforations where not enough surrounding tissue is present to close the perforation. However, in most cases, tissue inside the nose can be rearranged to repair the hole. Often, cartilage or other material is also placed to support the healing tissue and reduce the risk of recurrence. You could also consider a septal button which is a small flexible silicone grommet that spans the perforation and mechanically plugs it. These work well short term but most people don't tolerate them for longer periods of time. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

It's sounds like what you are describing is a septal perforation.  If you have not used cocaine in at least a year, you may be a candidate for surgical repair.  Other options include moisturizing agents, emollients, and silicone buttons (to block the hole).  Seek a consultation from a surgeon who has experience and interest in fixing septal perforations.  Best of luck.

Congratulations on getting yourself on the right track!  It sounds like you have fistula from cocaine use that may have been compounded with your injury. These small holes or septal fistulas can be fixed.  There are many options depending on the location of the fistula inside your nose.  I would Google rhinoplasty experts in your area as plastic surgeons who have a interest in rhinoplasty will be familiar with the options on how to fix these problems.  You will need an in office visit to assess the issue and to may a plan.  Best Wishes!!

Sorry to hear about this problem.  Septal perforations under 2 centimeters may heal on their own however with your past history it is unlikely.  Not  to worry though, septal perforations can be repaired.  One option is taking tissue from another region of your nose known as turbinate tissue and repairing the perforations.  in the meanwhile use bacitracin or neosporin to keep the septum moist and preventing further irritation and bleeding regards