Maxillofacial trauma
Broken Nose — Nasal Fracture
Symptoms, when to seek help and options for early or later correction of a broken nose.
Overview
Also known as: nasal fracture, fractured nose, crooked nose after injury
The nasal bones are among the most frequently broken bones of the face. Typical signs are pain, swelling, nosebleed, bruising around the eyes and a visibly crooked nose.
When the nose is displaced, realignment may be done early after the injury or at a later stage once the swelling has settled. The assessment also looks at whether the nasal septum and breathing through the nose are affected.
If a crooked nose or difficulty breathing remains after the injury, later correction of the shape and function of the nose may be discussed at consultation. The decision is made individually.
When to seek a consultation
- A visibly crooked or flattened nose after a blow.
- Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils.
- Pain, swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes.
- A nosebleed that does not stop with pressure, clear fluid from the nose after a head injury, or marked swelling inside the nose — seek emergency care or call 112.
What treatment may involve
- Examination of the outside and inside of the nose, including assessment of the nasal septum.
- Imaging if other facial bones may be involved.
- Realignment of displaced nasal bones — early after the injury or once the swelling has settled, usually under anaesthesia.
- If the septum is involved or breathing remains difficult, discussion of further correction.
- Later correction of the shape and function of the nose if a deformity remains, discussed individually.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
Recovery and follow-up
In the first days, swelling, bruising and a blocked nose are expected. You are usually advised not to blow your nose forcefully, to avoid knocks and contact sports for a period and to sleep with your head slightly raised.
Recovery is individual. The final shape of the nose is assessed after the swelling settles, and follow-up shows whether later correction is needed.
Risks and alternatives
Possible after-effects include a remaining crooked nose, difficulty breathing, a blood collection in the septum that needs urgent care, and the need for further correction.
For minor fractures without displacement or breathing difficulty, observation is often enough. The choice between early realignment, later correction or observation is discussed individually.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my nose is broken?
Pain, swelling, bleeding and a visibly crooked nose after a blow are common signs. An examination shows whether there is displacement and whether breathing is affected.
When should a broken nose be reset?
Realignment can be done early after the injury or once the swelling has settled. The right timing is assessed at examination, so it is best not to delay seeking advice.
Can an old broken nose be corrected later?
Yes, if a deformity or breathing difficulty remains, later correction of the nose may be discussed at consultation. The options depend on the individual case.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.