Does a nose have to bleed when it goes through trauma to be broken? (photo)

Question

My boyfriend and I were playing basketball and we ran into each other causing his head to smack into my nose. At the very moment it happened I heard a 'snap, crackle, pop' sound. It didn't bleed after it happened, but it did bruise pretty well and I woke up with dark coloring under my right eye even though the left side of my nose hurts worse.(??) I also woke up and my nose was slightly (slowly) bleeding. It is also quite swollen. I'm not sure if a trip to the doctor is worth it or not. HELP PLEASE

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Not having a nosebleed doesn't necessarily rule out a nasal fracture. The crunch that you experienced and your black eye signal a relatively severe injury. The only way to know if you have a fracture that requires repair is to seek a consultation ASAP. Typically within 10-14 days broken, deviated noses can be repaired with a minimally invasive "closed reduction" procedure. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

If the nose is broken and there is no violation to the lining inside the nose is possible for no nosebleed to occur in the wake of a fracture. You should have this checked out by a plastic surgeon.

Earl E. Ferguson III, MD, FACS · Answer

A physical exam is necessary to accurately answer your question. The cracking that you heard may have been either the bones or cartilage fracturing. You should be evaluated ASAP to rule out any bleeding into your septum, which can result in a long term nasal deformity if not treated promptly. Once urgent issues are addressed, you and your board certified plastic surgeon can discuss timing of any surgical treatment.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

You need documentation via a doctor's visit/examination and X-ray of the nasal bones. If the diagnosis is Nasal Fracture than you can determine if you desire corrective surgery...

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Trauma to the nose can result in a displaced or non-displaced  fracture of the nasal bones. This is usually evident on a simple x-ray of the nose. Trauma can also fracture the upper lateral cartilages off of the nasal bones. It is important to be evaluated by an ENT/facial plastic surgeon to document any fracture of the internal or external portion of the nose for medical necessity. Many times, a deviated septum also results from a fracture of the nasal septum. For many examples of broken nose repair in our practice, please see the link below

Does a nose have to bleed when it goes through trauma to be broken? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Does a nose have to bleed when it goes through trauma to be broken? (photo) Ashlinn_g New

Answer: Does a nose have to bleed when it goes through trauma to be broken? (photo) Ashlinn_g New

Answer: Nasal trauma And broken nose

Answer: Nasal trauma And broken nose

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Does a nose have to bleed when it goes through trauma to be broken? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Does a nose have to bleed when it goes through trauma to be broken? (photo) Ashlinn_g New

Answer: Does a nose have to bleed when it goes through trauma to be broken? (photo) Ashlinn_g New

Answer: Nasal trauma And broken nose

Answer: Nasal trauma And broken nose

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.