Nasal Fracture in New York, NY

Trauma or blunt force to the face can often result in a broken nose – a crack or fracture to one or both of the nasal bones – the small, oblong bones that come together at the center of the nose to form the top of the nose referred to as “the bridge.” Below the bridge resides the septum, the cartilage that separates the nose into two distinct sides. A broken nose can result in a change in shape, creating a crooked nose or hump on the bridge. A break may also impact the inside of the nose, creating breathing issues. Dr. Klausner is one of the top rhinoplasty (nose surgery) experts in NYC, specializing in broken nose/nasal fracture repair.

The symptoms of a broken nose vary according to the extent of the injury. For example, a mild fracture may mean you only experience a little swelling and a brief nosebleed, whereas a more severe fracture can result in a deformity, such as a crooked nose. The nasal passages may also be blocked, which can result in a deviated septum. If left untreated, a broken nose may result in nasal valve collapse, nasal septal perforation, loss of smell, or other unwanted complications.

Symptoms of a broken nose include:

• Pain
• Nosebleed (usually occurs immediately after injury)
• Bruising and swelling around the eyes
• Nasal obstruction (such as a deviated septum)
• A bent or crooked nose

If you suspect that you have a broken nose, see a doctor right away since not treating a broken nose for more than two weeks can result in further issues, such as greater deformity. The evaluating physician may use a nasal speculum to determine if any nasal passages have been blocked. If surgery is required, it is critical that you seek out a surgeon who is highly experienced in broken nose repair, which can be a delicate and often complicated procedure. Many general plastic surgeons do not have extensive training regarding the internal structure of the nose. Dr. Klausner is double board certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology (head and neck surgery). Therefore, you can rest assured that she will expertly attend to any cosmetic or breathing issues related to your specific situation.

If you have a broken nose, you can minimize pain and swelling at home by keeping your head elevated and icing frequently. Discuss additional home care with your healthcare provider. Be sure to call our NYC office as soon as possible to arrange for a consultation with Dr. Klausner who will sit down with you to discuss how to safely and effectively address your nasal fracture. She will also carefully review before-and-after pictures with you. Lastly, medical insurance will usually cover the repair of a broken nose since functional issues, such as breathing, are often present, deeming the procedure medically necessary.

How is a nasal fracture diagnosed?

Dr. Klausner can perform a comprehensive examination of the nose to determine if there is a fracture or other issue that needs to be addressed. Our team may begin by asking about your medical history and how the injury occurred. We may also feel for deformities and check for signs of a fracture, such as bruising, swelling, or a crooked appearance. Once we understand your condition well, we can develop a treatment plan.

What happens when a nasal fracture goes untreated?

Ignoring a nasal fracture can lead to serious complications such as chronic pain, difficulty breathing, loss of smell, nasal valve collapse, and nasal septal perforation. In some cases, the bones in the nose may heal in an abnormal position, causing cosmetic concerns. It’s important to seek medical attention from a professional as soon as possible after sustaining a nasal injury to ensure positive outcomes.

How is a nasal fracture treated?

The course of treatment for a nasal fracture depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, rest, ice, and over-the-counter medication may be enough to manage pain and swelling. More serious fractures require surgery to realign the bones and improve function and appearance. Our experienced team in New York can develop a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs.