Should I break my nose deliberately? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I'm Katy, I'm 15 and I have always had a crooked nose from since I can remember. My dad's nose is very similar so I would imagine it is genetic but my nose appears to be worse and much larger. It is clear that at my age I can not afford any surgery and I don't think it is legal so I am resorting to breaking the nose by myself. I am very shy as I am always feeling embarrassed by my nose but need I am still unsure whether I should do it or not.

Parker A. Velargo, MD, FACS · Answer

Absolutely, positively NOT!  Please discuss your concerns with your parents.  With your parents' consent and depending on your level of maturation, you are a candidate for surgery.  Costs may be defrayed by insurance in some cases if you have a deviated septum.  Additionally, your parents can also pursue a line of credit to pay for your surgery.  I have a feeling that if you tell your parents how much it bothers you, they will help make the right decision.  But, please don't attempt to break your nose -- you may cause damage that won't be reversible even in the most skilled of hands.I wish you well!Parker A. Velargo, MD

Jerold Olson, MD · Answer

Hello,

Although I understand your concerns about the shape of your
nose, deliberately injuring yourself would be a very bad decision. A nasal
injury is extremely painful, the shape of your nose would probably be worse, and
the cosmetic issues that you are concerned about would likely not be covered by
your health insurance. Please discuss
your concerns with your parents. It is very important that they are aware of
your thinking about this issue. Good luck!

Robert D. Wilcox, MD · Answer

Dear TheFutureRevisionist,

That is a very very bad idea. If you do not
like the appearance of your nose, you will hate it after you have broken it. It
could not possibly be improved by purposefully breaking your nose. Furthermore,
at your young age of 15, if you damage the septum it could cause permanent
disruption in the vertical growth of your midface.

The last bad reason is you could injure your
septum and cause a breathing obstruction.

Speak with your parents and tell them your
concerns. If the surgery is something your family is unable to afford, when you
turn 16, consider contacting a nearby university medical center with a plastic
surgery department. They may offer discounted cosmetic surgery as part of the
training of the resident physicians there.

I hope this has been helpful.

Robert D. Wilcox, MD

Don Fontana, MD · Answer

NO...no...No...No...NO...get the picture. Start saving, get a summer job and a part time job  during the school year, make the cost be part of a graduation gift...etc.  You'll appreciate it much more. I have had many teenagers save  and  come in prior to going to college .

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Katy,Under no circumstances should you ever intentionally break your nose.  Besides the risks to your nose and overall appearance if you were ever contemplating surgery a break makes it harder to get the result you want.  I understand the desire for improvement but this is not the way to go about doing it.  I would recommend you be evaluated by a facial plastic surgeon or general plastic surgeon to properly evaluate your nose.  If you have a deviation on the inside that is significant enough to cause airway obstruction proven with photo documentation your insurance may cover the initial cost of the procedure.  No insurance company pays for the external portion or rhinoplasty but having them cover the septoplasty can be a huge benefit.  Other options for payments exist which can be discussed with your surgeon.  I'd also recommend you let your parents know how much this is bothering you as they may have some resources that may be available or they can at least help to support you during this time.

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