What Is a Broken Nose?

A broken nose, or nasal fracture, refers to a crack or break in one or more of the nasal bones.

This type of injury often occurs following trauma, such as sporting accidents, falls, physical contact or motor vehicle collisions.

Common symptoms may include:

• Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes.
• Bleeding from one or both nostrils.
• Pain or tenderness when touching the nose.
• Nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing.
• Visible deviation or change in nasal shape.

If you suspect a nasal fracture, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation to determine the extent of the injury and whether further management is required.

Do All Broken Noses Require Surgery?

Not all nasal fractures need surgical intervention.

If the fracture is minor and the nasal bones remain in alignment, treatment may involve rest, ice application and pain management while the nose heals naturally.

However, surgery may be recommended in cases involving:

• Displacement of the nasal bones or cartilage.
• Septal deviation causing obstruction or breathing difficulty.
• Septal haematoma (collection of blood inside the nose).
• Persistent deformity or functional issues after injury.

A specialist ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) surgeon can assess whether the fracture requires surgical realignment, known as a closed or open reduction.

Closed Reduction and Surgical Repair

If the bones have shifted, a closed reduction procedure may be performed — ideally within two weeks of injury, before healing occurs.

This procedure is done under general anaesthesia and typically takes around 20 minutes.

During surgery, slender instruments are inserted into the nostrils to gently reposition the bones and cartilage.

After the procedure:

• A small external splint or plaster cast may be placed to support the nose during healing.
• The cast is usually removed after 7 to 8 days.
• Contact sports should be avoided for at least 6 to 10 weeks.

If significant structural changes or breathing issues remain after healing, rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty may be considered several months later to address residual deformities or septal deviation.

When to Seek Medical Assessment

You should see a doctor or ENT specialist if you experience:

• Persistent nasal obstruction or pain.
• Ongoing bleeding or discharge.
• Noticeable nasal deviation after swelling subsides.
• Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils.

In the first 48 to 72 hours after injury, swelling can make diagnosis difficult.

Applying ice and keeping the head elevated can help reduce swelling until your GP or ENT review (usually within 7–10 days).

Surgery for Complex or Deviated Nasal Fractures

In more complex cases, where the nasal septum or cartilage has been displaced, septorhinoplasty may be recommended to restore both nasal structure and airflow.

This type of procedure is generally performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital or day surgery facility.

The approach depends on:

• The location and severity of the fracture.
• The involvement of internal structures (such as the septum).
• The degree of nasal obstruction or breathing difficulty.

Your surgeon will explain the specific approach, anaesthesia, recovery process and risks during consultation.

Risks and Possible Complications

All surgical procedures carry potential risks.

For broken nose surgery, these may include:

• Temporary swelling or bruising.
• Infection or bleeding.
• Changes in nasal sensation.
• Minor asymmetry or residual deviation.
• Breathing difficulty if internal structures heal unevenly.
• Scarring (usually minimal and internal).

Your surgeon will discuss these risks and outline the postoperative care needed to support recovery.

Recovery After Nasal Fracture Surgery

• Swelling and congestion are normal for several weeks.
• Avoid strenuous activity and protect the nose from further trauma.
• Use saline sprays or prescribed rinses to keep nasal passages clear.
• Attend all postoperative appointments to monitor healing.

In most cases, patients resume light activities within one week, though full internal healing may take several months.

Consultation with Dr Shahidi

Dr Shahram Shahidi

BSC(MED)(HON I) MB BS(SYD) FRACS FAAFPS

MED0001167352

Specialist Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat) – Head and Neck Surgeon

Member, Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

 

Dr Shahidi is an Australian-trained and FRACS-qualified ENT surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in nasal and sinus surgery.

He provides comprehensive assessments for nasal trauma and fractures and discusses treatment options appropriate to each individual’s condition and needs.

Disclaimer:

All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. Individual results vary.

Before proceeding, patients are encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.