Could my Nose Be Broken?

     You will need an exam to determine the answer to this question.

 

 

Kenneth Hughes, MD

Los Angeles, CA

I agree that you likely sustained a minor nasal fracture.  While there typically is not much that we do at this stage other than allow the bruising and swelling to settle down, I am happy to take a look at it for you should you desire.

Nose can be rather easily broken in a number of different ways.  Often times patients are not even aware that their nose was broken.  In your particular case - nose bleed, black and blue, etc. most likely indicates that your nose is broken.  In my practice, if there is not an immediate obvious external distortion the nose, or clear evidence of an acute septal fracture, I do not rush into surgery.  Many patients can heal satisfactorily without surgery.  Those patients that go on to to heal with a nasal deformity - external and or internal - can undergo nasal surgery at a later date without compromising the final result.

The history that you have given is consistent with a possible nasal fracture.  You should be evaluated by a surgeon and have some X-rays performed to see whether you need to have the fracture (if you have one) to be repositioned.

If your nose looks straight other than the swelling then it is possible that you've only suffered a soft tissue injury. However, the only way to be sure would be to seek a consultation with an experienced expert in nasal trauma. If you do have a nasal fracture with deviation of your nose, if it important to seek a consult ASAP because, in most cases, these fractures can be "reduced" and the nose straightened without a highly invasive procedure. I hope this answer is helpful.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS
Lone Tree Facial Plastic Surgeon 

Certainly it is possible that you broke your nose based upon your description of the accident and your overall appearance. Best to be seen in person.

Perhaps. Only way to tell is an examination and x-ray to confirm. If you are concerned see your physician for evaluation.

  A broken nose can only be diagnosed with an x-ray and examination by an ENT/ facial plastic surgeon. Best to seek out a consultation to document the nasal fracture in case you ever decide to have it repaired. Also important to make sure there is no  deviated septum or septal hematoma on the internal portion of the nose. For examples of nasal fracture repair, please see the link below.

I am so glad you wrote in since cosmetic nasal surgery is my favorite operation. The nose is right in the middle of the face and a 1 millimeter change in any direction can make a difference. The nose should be natural, beautiful, and understated... Never looking like you were tampered with. In your case only an x-ray will confirm a true nasal fracture. If this is the case, and there is shape change, this can be repaired within the first 24 hours before swelling is very distorting or in 2 weeks when the swelling is down. My best advice would be do not touch if the nose looks normal and breathing is ok. All swelling and bruising will go away 

 

Hi

You could have sustained a minor fracture that did not shift the nose but you should see a plastic surgeon or an ENT surgeon to have it checked out to make sure you did not bleed into your septum.  Since your breathing is fine most likely you are OK but it never hurts to double check.  Once the swelling settles down, minor or more major defects as a result of the trauma may unveil themselves.  The nose is easy to break, either before or after a #rhinoplasty.