Nasal Fractures

Nasal fractures affect breathing function and facial appearance. At Southern ENT Associates, our ear, nose, and throat specialists bring exceptional skills to diagnosing and treating nasal fractures to restore form and function.

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man touching the bridge of his nose in discomfort

Types of Nasal Fractures

Simple fractures: Minimal displacement or alignment of nasal bones.
Comminuted fractures: Involves multiple bone fragments.
Complex fractures: Affect nasal bones, septum, and surrounding structures.
Open fractures: Overlying skin is disrupted and requires surgical correction.
Closed fractures: Overlying skin remains intact.

Symptoms of a Nasal Fracture

Symptoms of a broken nose or nasal fracture may include:

Pain and tenderness over the nose
Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes
Difficulty breathing through the nose
Nose structure has changed, crooked or misaligned
Nosebleeds
Black eyes or bruising

Diagnosis and Evaluation

If you or a family member has sustained a facial impact in an accident, playing sports, a fall, or an assault, our experienced ENT specialists will perform a thorough evaluation. The evaluation may include a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans. This comprehensive approach ensures accurate diagnosis and guides in creating an individualized treatment plan.

What is the Treatment for a Nasal Fracture?

Closed Reduction

Closed reduction is a non-surgical procedure where the doctor manually realigns the fractured bones back into their proper position. This technique is often used for simple, uncomplicated nasal fractures.

Nasal Packing

Nasal packing involves inserting gauze or an inflatable balloon into the nasal cavity to control bleeding and support the nasal structures while they heal. This method is common for more severe nasal fractures or when there is significant bleeding.

Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten the nasal septum, which may be deviated or displaced due to the nasal fracture. It can improve breathing and correct any structural abnormalities caused by the injury.

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, may be necessary to correct any cosmetic deformities resulting from the nasal fracture. It can reshape the nose and improve its appearance, restoring facial symmetry and proportion.

Closed Reduction with External Splinting

Closed reduction with external splinting involves repositioning the fractured nasal bones externally and then applying a splint or cast to the outside of the nose to hold them in place while they heal. This method is often used for more complex fractures or when closed reduction alone will not resolve the condition.

Complex Nasal Fracture Treatments

Open Reduction with Internal Fixation (ORIF)

ORIF is a surgical procedure involving incisions to access the fractured nasal bones directly. The surgeon then repositions the bones into their proper alignment and uses specialized instruments, such as plates, screws, or wires, to stabilize the fracture internally. This technique provides rigid fixation, allowing for more precise alignment and improved healing of the fractured bones.

Nasal Septal Reconstruction

In cases where the nasal septum is significantly deviated or damaged, nasal septal reconstruction may be necessary. This procedure involves reshaping or reconstructing the septum to restore proper alignment and function. It can improve nasal airflow, alleviate breathing difficulties, and prevent long-term complications associated with septal deviation.

Cartilage Grafting

Cartilage grafting is often employed during complex nasal fracture surgeries to augment or reconstruct nasal structures severely damaged or lost due to the injury. The surgeon may harvest cartilage from other areas of the body, such as the ear or rib, to rebuild the nasal framework and support the nasal tip or bridge.

Revision Rhinoplasty

In cases where the initial treatment for a nasal fracture has resulted in unsatisfactory outcomes or complications, revision rhinoplasty may be necessary to correct the deformities and restore nasal aesthetics. This secondary procedure aims to refine the nasal shape, improve symmetry, and address any functional issues that persist after the initial surgery.

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

Nasal fractures can lead to complications such as chronic sinusitis or nasal obstruction. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) may address these issues by removing obstructive tissue, clearing blocked sinus passages, and restoring normal sinus drainage. This procedure can alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and recurrent sinus infections.
These treatments aim to restore the normal function and appearance of the nose while minimizing discomfort and complications associated with the injury. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and complexity of the fracture, as well as the patient's overall health and aesthetic goals.

Surgical Expertise for Nose Fractures

Our team offers advanced techniques for nasal fracture repair for patients requiring surgical intervention due to a broken nose or damage to the inner nose structures. Our skilled surgeons employ precision and finesse to realign displaced nasal bones, restore nasal symmetry, and address any associated septal deviations or other structural abnormalities. Whether the fracture is simple or complex, our specialists prioritize functional restoration and aesthetic outcomes.

Beyond our surgical expertise, Southern ENT Associates provides comprehensive care throughout the treatment process. Our compassionate team ensures the best possible outcomes from initial evaluation to post-operative follow-up.

Why Choose Southern ENT Associates for Nasal Fractures?

Choosing Southern ENT Associates for the management of nasal fractures means gaining access to a team of highly skilled specialists with extensive experience in facial trauma and reconstructive surgery. Our commitment to excellence, with state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centered approach, ensures that individuals receive the highest quality of care for their nasal fracture concerns. Whether addressing functional impairments or aesthetic concerns, patients can trust Southern ENT Associates to deliver personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs.

If you've experienced a nasal fracture or have concerns about nasal function or aesthetics, schedule a consultation with Southern ENT Associates today. Our team is here to provide expert evaluation, compassionate care, and effective treatment options to help you restore nasal health and confidence.