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    Nasal Fractures

    About Nasal Fractures

    The nasal bones are the most commonly broken bones in the body. A nasal fracture (broken nose) occurs when the nose is struck by another object with a significant amount of force. Competitive sports, altercations, falls, and other accidents are all common causes of broken noses.

    When the nose is struck with enough force to cause a fracture, there is frequently immediate pain, bleeding, and swelling. The nose may be deviated to one side although swelling can sometimes make assessment difficult. Breathing through one or both nostrils can also be affected.

    When there is concern for a broken nose, the patient should be evaluated promptly to rule out other facial injuries, to assess the inside of the nose for an injury to the septum, and to determine if surgery is necessary to re-align the broken fragments of bone. Nasal fractures should be treated promptly to prevent long-term side effects.

    Surgery for Nasal Fractures

    When a nasal fracture is diagnosed within the first 7-10 days, a procedure called a closed reduction can usually be performed. In this procedure, the broken bones are aligned without re-breaking them. Once the initial two weeks have passed after the fracture, it is unlikely the bones can be aligned properly without re-fracturing them in a controlled manner. This procedure is known as open reduction.

    Dr. Daines has extensive training and experience dealing with broken noses. Whether the injury occurred recently or many years earlier, he will be able to assess your nose and make an accurate diagnosis. The office consultation involves a thorough examination of the external and internal features of the nose. If you have had x-rays or a CT scan, Dr. Daines will also review the images to confirm the physical exam findings. He will then recommend a treatment plan to restore the appearance and function of your nose to its pre-injury condition.

    Nasal fractures are a serious problem that can impact both the appearance and the function of the nose. The sooner treatment is administered, the better the outcome will be. To learn more about surgical repair of nasal fractures, contact Daines Plastic Surgery at 949-397-6499.

    *Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Steven M Daines has written information about Nasal Fractures that has been carefully reviewed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us using our form below.

    Download our nasal fracture post operation care patient handout here.

    I came to Dr. Daines after an accident to reduce a nasal fracture. Let’s just say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Before the surgery, my nose was crooked. Now, you cannot even tell I ever had a broken nose. AMAZING! From the moment you step into his office, you are welcomed and comforted by Dr. Daines and his staff. Thank you Dr. Daines! – Safa K.

    Procedure Details

    Nasal fracture treatment (reduction) can be performed in the office under local anesthesia or in the operating room with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the severity of the injury. In more straightforward cases, the procedure generally takes thirty minutes or less. With special instruments, bony fragments are released and then relocated into their proper position. An external splint is used to protect the nose and sponges may also be placed inside the nose and left in place overnight.

    Bleeding after nasal fracture surgery tends to be minimal. Pain and swelling are also mild in most cases and can be sufficiently managed with oral pain medications. After about one week, the external splint is removed to reveal the repaired nose. Patients can usually return to work within 4-5 days, although contact sports are typically avoided for 4-6 weeks while the bones are healing.

    Daines Plastic Surgery