Damage done to nose by basketball after rhinoplasty?

Question

I had a rhinoplasty 2 years ago. A few days ago I was hit on the nose HARD with a basketball. My nose did not bleed, but it did hurt alot and swelled up. it hurt for a couple hours after that and it is still swollen days after. I am extremely worried because where the columella meeta my septum, there is a piece of cartilage poking out. it was not there before. I am wondering if its possible that I broke my carilage? I have been icing my nose and it is still there.

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear Ashleykm,I am sorry for the trauma to your nose. It is possible that the swelling will go down, but without a physical exam, it is hard to say if there is damage to the cartilage. Please make an appointment with a plastic surgeon to fully examine your nose. Best regards,Nima Shemirani

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

Hi ashleykm,I'm sorry to hear about the trauma to your nose. I think that you most likely did receive some damage to the nose. I think that you should get in to see your surgeon for an in person evaluation.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

You need an unperson evaluation to determine if the septal carriage was fractured or is it just swelling.

Victor Chung, MD · Answer

Recovering from rhinoplasty is a healing process. Part of that process is protecting your healing nose from being hit as it needs time to reach full strength. Accidents do happen. If there is no bleeding or swelling, you're likely fine. If there is bleeding or significant swelling or change in the shape of the nose or breathing, I recommend that you see your surgeon as soon as possible. If you go to the emergency department, tell them you have had rhinoplasty. Evaluation by your surgeon will determine the most appropriate treatment for a safe and happy outcome. Safety comes first.

J. David Kriet, MD, FACS · Answer

Sorry to hear about your injury. It is possible for an impact to the nose to cause either a fracture (break) or shifting of the nasal septum. Sometimes the blow will cause the septum to slide off of the crest of bone that it normally rests upon. I would recommend that you have an evaluation with your rhinoplasty surgeon or another board certified rhinoplasty specialist to determine the extent of injury.
Best wishes!

Damage done to nose by basketball after rhinoplasty?

Answers (5)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

Rhinoplasty using ear cartilage.

Can a rhinoplasty and lip lift be done in one go?

Is it possible to vertically lengthen my nose a few milimeters?

Can people with myopia have rhinoplasty? (Photo)

Can piezosurgery (for rhinoplasty) cause burns and nerve damage?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS