If a nose has been broken is there always visible damage or scarring?

A "broken nose" refers to when part of the nasal bones are cracked or move. Or sometimes the entire bony "pyramid" can shift. These bony changes can be seen on X-rays. The nasal bones only comprise about 1/3 of the length of the nose however, and the remaining parts which are made up of cartilage can also be dislodged or broken, although these would not necessarily show up on X-rays. Most trauma to the nose is blunt and doesn't break the skin. Initially there will be swelling and that acute swelling might mask any subtle changes and prevent us from appreciating them initially. Only after the swelling subsides are we usually able to detect the changes but it is possible that there will be little or no visible damage. A non-displaced fracture may not result in any demonstrable change, not might a subtle shift of the pyramid. Most commonly the visibile changes become apparent only after 6-8 weeks when swelling has subsided. there might be a curve to the septum or a depression along one of the side walls from an uppper lateral cartilage mvoing inwards. The bones might have a different slope as they move from the bridge to the junction with the face. There might even be some flattening or a "dent". Even if there are not any external changes the inside of the nose might be quite different as a result of the trauma. The septum might be deviated or the side walls might be collapsed and either of these might cause signifcant breathing problems. The best plan of action after a "broken nose" or any nasal trauma would be to ice it and take anti inflammatory medicines and to have an evaluation so that the trauma can be documented for inusrance purposes and any indicated treatment rendered. I ususally wait approximately 8 weeks before re evaluating things unless the nose is extremely twisted and the bones are mobile; in which case I might perform a "closed reduction" by manipulating them into a straight position within a 10 day period before they begin to become fixed. While a closed reduction might help to straighten things it is very limited in what it can ultimately achieve and may even need to be followed eventually by a more comprehensive rhinoplasty to deal with the cartilage etc..

It depends of how badly the nose was broken. If the bones were broken, but not displaced, usually the nose heals with little to no visible signs. Notice I said usually. Everyone and every broken nose is different. Badly broken and displaced noses are much more likely to have residual lumps, bumps, and scarring. If there is a cut on the nasal skin, it will leave a visible scar.