A nasal bone fracture is a break or crack in one or both of the small bones in the bridge of your nose. It’s a common facial injury, often caused by a blow to the face, such as from a fall, car accident, or sports injury.

Symptoms of a nasal bone fracture:

• Pain and swelling in the nose
• Bruising around the nose and eyes
• Bleeding from the nose
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• A crooked or misaligned nose
• A loose, clicking, or grating sensation in the nose

Treatment of a nasal bone fracture:

Treatment for a nasal bone fracture depends on the severity of the fracture. In most cases, non-surgical treatment is sufficient. This may include:

• Applying ice packs to the nose to reduce swelling and pain
• Taking pain medication
• Elevating your head when sleeping
• Avoiding blowing your nose
• Using nasal saline spray to keep the nasal passages moist

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the broken bones. This is typically done within the first week or two of the injury, before the bones have a chance to heal in the wrong position.

Here’s a breakdown of the main aspects of surgical treatment:

Types of surgical procedures:

• Closed reduction: This is a minimally invasive procedure usually performed under anesthesia. The surgeon manipulates the broken bones back into their proper position using specialized instruments inserted through the nostrils. Internal splints or packing might be used for further stabilization.

• Open reduction (rhinoplasty): This involves making an external incision on the columella (the fleshy part separating the nostrils) or inside the nose to directly access and reposition the fractured bones and cartilage. This approach offers greater precision and is often combined with addressing cosmetic concerns or septal deviations (crooked septum).

When is surgery considered?

• Significant cosmetic deformity: If the fracture causes a noticeable crookedness, asymmetry, or other visible issues that persist.
• Functional problems: When the fracture affects breathing due to nasal obstruction or septal deviation, surgery might be necessary to improve airflow.
• Complex fractures: In cases of comminuted fractures (bone fragments in multiple pieces) or severely displaced bones, surgery might be necessary for proper alignment and stabilization.

Post-surgery care:

• Nasal packing or splints: These are usually placed for a few days to stabilize the bones and prevent bleeding.
• Pain medication: Prescribed to manage post-surgical discomfort.
• Head elevation: Recommended to reduce swelling.
• Other restrictions: Avoiding blowing your nose and consuming certain foods as instructed by the surgeon.
• Follow-up appointments: Regular checkups are crucial to monitor healing and address any concerns.

It’s important to note that surgery always carries some inherent risks and should be carefully discussed with a qualified otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) to weigh the potential benefits and risks against non-surgical options.

It is important to see an ENT specialist right away if you think you have a broken nose. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.

Here are some additional tips for preventing a nasal bone fracture:

• Wear a helmet during sports and other activities that carry a risk of head injury.
• Use seat belts and airbags in the car.
• Avoid physical altercations.