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In daily life, one of the most common facial injuries involves blows to the nose. A nasal fracture, which can occur after such trauma, may lead to both aesthetic and functional problems. Especially if it is not evaluated in a timely manner and managed appropriately, issues such as nasal congestion, deviation, difficulty breathing, and deterioration in facial aesthetics may occur. For this reason, early specialist assessment after trauma is important.
Contents
- What Is a Nasal Fracture?
- Situations That Can Cause a Nasal Fracture
- What Are the Symptoms of a Nasal Fracture?
- How Is a Nasal Fracture Diagnosed?
- Treatment Options for a Nasal Fracture
- Closed Reduction for a Nasal Fracture
- Open Surgical Approach for a Nasal Fracture
- What to Consider After a Nasal Fracture
- What Can Happen If Treatment of a Nasal Fracture Is Delayed?
What Is a Nasal Fracture?
A nasal fracture is a trauma in which the nasal bones crack or become displaced due to an external force. As the most prominent structure on the face, the nose is the area most exposed to impact. The fracture usually affects the nasal bone, but in some cases it may also involve the cartilage tissue.
Situations That Can Cause a Nasal Fracture
- Falls and collisions
- Traffic accidents
- Sports injuries (especially football/soccer, basketball, boxing)
- Physical impact/blunt trauma
- Accidents and workplace injuries
What Are the Symptoms of a Nasal Fracture?
- Sudden and severe nasal pain
- Swelling and bruising of the nose
- Bleeding
- Change in the shape of the nose
- Difficulty breathing
- Bruising around the eyes
- A crackling sensation when the nose is moved
- Tenderness that increases with touch
How Is a Nasal Fracture Diagnosed?
- Clinical examination to assess the internal and external nasal structure
- X-ray imaging of the bony structures
- CT (Computed Tomography) if necessary
- Evaluation for septal deviation
Treatment Options for a Nasal Fracture
Closed Reduction for a Nasal Fracture
- It may be performed within the first 7–10 days after the fracture.
- The goal is to reposition the nasal bones to an appropriate alignment.
- It can be performed under local or general anesthesia.
Open Surgical Approach for a Nasal Fracture
- It may be preferred if time has passed since the fracture or if the deformity is significant.
- If needed, the nasal structure may be evaluated together with nasal function.
What to Consider After a Nasal Fracture
- Cold application may be used within the first 24 hours after trauma.
- Sleeping with the head elevated may help reduce swelling.
- Avoid forceful nose cleaning/blowing.
- Wearing glasses may need to be postponed for a period of time.
- Do not use intranasal products without your doctor’s advice.
What Can Happen If Treatment of a Nasal Fracture Is Delayed?
- Permanent nasal deviation
- Persistent breathing difficulties
- Change in nasal shape
- Recurrent sinus problems
- Long-term discomfort in the facial and sinus region
