Accidents can happen any time, any place, and anywhere. Some of these accidents are minor and result in bumps and scrapes, while others may result in facial injuries. The nose is of particular concern in these cases. A broken nose can have a lasting effect on your appearance as well as your overall health and wellness.
Many patients come to our San Mateo, CA plastic surgery center to undergo rhinoplasty (nose job) for a broken nose. Plastic surgeons can treat nasal fractures of all kinds. Let’s explore this issue in more detail below.
Problems if a Broken Nose Heals Untreated
A broken nose is similar to a broken arm or a broken leg in some ways. If the fracture is not properly treated, the broken part of the body doesn’t return to its normal shape. In the case of a broken nose, this means a crooked bridge, facial asymmetry, an off-putting angle to the nose, or a flat or smashed-looking nose.
In addition to aesthetic issues, there’s also a possibility that the fracture will affect your ability to breathe properly. Airways may be constructed or entirely blocked off as a result of injury, which can have long-term impact on your overall health and wellness.
If you want to restore your appearance to the way it was prior to the injury and avoid breathing issues, undergoing cosmetic or reconstructive surgery will be necessary.
The Best Time to Fix a Broken Nose
When it comes to fixing a broken nose, the sooner the better. In fact, if addressed soon enough, cosmetic surgery may not be required at all. A doctor may be able to move the fractured structures back into place manually. Manual treatment may still be possible within two weeks of injury depending on the extent of the damage.
If a rhinoplasty is required, performing surgery soon after the nasal fracture gives surgeons the best opportunity to restore the appearance of the nose with as few difficulties as possible. Again, early treatment within two weeks is often most ideal.
Can an Old Nasal Fracture Be Surgically Repaired?
Yes, it is possible to treat a broken nose even if the injury took place decades ago. A plastic surgeon will be able to target and treat the initial fractured area and make cosmetic adjustments as needed.
Keep in mind that some old injuries may not be fixable, and that it may be too difficult to completely restore the appearance of your nose to the way it was before the initial injury. That said, a plastic surgeon will be able to at least make revisions that straighten the nose, improving its overall appearance and structure.
What to Expect during Rhinoplasty
A rhinoplasty can be performed one of two ways:
- Open Rhinoplasty: During an open rhinoplasty, an incision is made along the columella, the strip of skin located between your nostrils. Through this incision, the surgeon can repair and revise the fractured structures of the nose.
- Closed Rhinoplasty: During a closed rhinoplasty, all incisions to access the damages structures of the nose are made inside of the nostrils. While surgeons cannot work as extensively with a closed rhinoplasty technique, there is no need for an external incision on the nose.
During a consultation, we can go over the ideal surgical techniques and consult recent photographs to help restore the appearance of your nose to the best of our ability.
The Results of Reconstructive Rhinoplasty
The results of a reconstructive rhinoplasty can be quite dramatic, restoring the appearance of your nose to the way it was before an injury. The surgeon may even make subtle cosmetic adjustments to enhance your looks. Any issues with blocked or altered air passages can also be addressed to prevent breathing problems.
Contact John R. Griffin, M.D.
For more information about rhinoplasty and your many other options for facial rejuvenation, be sure to contact an experienced cosmetic plastic surgeon. Our entire team is here to help you look your best.
