Nasal Fractures
What is a Nasal Fracture
A nasal fracture, commonly referred to as a broken nose, occurs when one or more of the bones or cartilage that make up the nose are cracked or displaced. Because the nose projects outward from the face, it is the most commonly fractured bone in the body.
Nasal fractures can occur at any age and are often the result of:
- Sports injuries
- Falls
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Physical altercations
- Work-related injuries
- Recreational accidents
While some fractures are minor and heal without lasting problems, others can lead to significant cosmetic deformity or difficulty breathing if not properly treated.
Symptoms of a Broken Nose
Common signs and symptoms of a nasal fracture include:
- Pain and tenderness
- Swelling of the nose and surrounding tissues
- Bruising around the nose or under the eyes
- Nosebleeds
- Crooked or visibly deformed nose
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Nasal congestion
- A crunching or grinding sensation when touching the nose
If a nasal injury is accompanied by heavy bleeding, clear fluid draining from the nose, changes in vision, severe headache, or loss of consciousness, immediate emergency medical care should be sought.
Diagnosing a Nasal Fracture
Although X-rays and CT scans may occasionally be used to evaluate facial injuries, most nasal fractures are diagnosed through a careful physical examination. Because the nasal bones are close to the surface of the skin, displaced fractures are often visible or easily felt during the examination.
Dr. Kimi Dart will evaluate the alignment of the nasal bones, examine the inside of the nose for a deviated septum or septal hematoma, and determine whether the injury has affected normal nasal breathing. Identifying associated injuries is an important part of developing the appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment for Nasal Fractures
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the degree of displacement.
Minor Nasal Fractures
Small fractures with minimal displacement often heal on their own with conservative treatment. Ice, head elevation, pain medication, and allowing the swelling to subside may be all that is required. Follow-up evaluation is important to ensure the nose heals properly and that breathing remains unobstructed.
Closed Reduction of a Nasal Fracture
When the nasal bones have shifted out of position, a closed nasal reduction may be recommended. During this procedure, the nasal bones are carefully repositioned without making external incisions, restoring both appearance and nasal function.
For the best results, closed reduction is ideally performed within 7 to 10 days after the injury, before the bones begin to heal in the wrong position.
Open Reduction of a Nasal Fracture
If treatment is delayed or the fracture is particularly complex, the bones may have already started to heal in an abnormal position. In these cases, an open reduction may be necessary. This surgical procedure allows the bones and supporting structures to be repositioned more precisely and may be combined with repair of the nasal septum or other internal structures when needed.
Recovery After Nasal Fracture Repair
Recovery varies depending on the severity of the fracture and the type of treatment performed.
Following a closed or open reduction, a protective splint or cast is typically worn for approximately one to two weeks to help stabilize the nasal bones during the early stages of healing.
Although patients usually begin feeling better within a few weeks, the nasal bones remain vulnerable for several weeks afterward. Complete healing may take up to three months.
During recovery, patients should:
- Avoid contact sports and activities with a risk of facial injury.
- Avoid placing pressure on the nose from eyeglasses or sunglasses whenever possible.
- Sleep with the head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Follow all post-operative instructions and attend scheduled follow-up appointments.
Expert Care for Broken Noses in Lake Jackson, TX
Prompt evaluation is important after any significant nasal injury. Early diagnosis and treatment can help restore the normal appearance of the nose, improve breathing, and reduce the likelihood of long-term complications.
Dr. Kimi Dart provides expert evaluation and treatment for nasal fractures and other nasal injuries in Lake Jackson, TX. Whether your injury requires observation, closed reduction, or surgical repair, Dr. Dart will recommend the treatment that best restores both the appearance and function of your nose.