Addressing a Nasal Fracture with Rhinoplasty
Of all the bones in the head, the nasal bones are the most commonly broken. A broken nose or nasal fracture can be caused by falls, accidents or fights. They also vary widely in severity. If the patient’s skin isn’t bleeding, they don’t have trouble breathing, and the nasal bones haven’t been knocked out of alignment, the patient will probably not need surgery. Otherwise, rhinoplasty may be necessary to correct the injury and improve the patient’s breathing ability.
How Is a Nasal Fracture Treated?
Broken noses heal within two to three weeks, and mild cases that don’t result in deformity or breathing trouble can often be handled at home. Since broken noses are accompanied by swelling, the patient should keep their head elevated and use ice packs to reduce swelling. They may also take over-the-counter painkillers.
If a nasal fracture has deformed the nose, the patient will need to undergo rhinoplasty to correct the problem. The process will begin with a consultation with Dr. Leeman, during which you can discuss the procedure with him and find out exactly what to expect.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is plastic surgery on the nose. It can be cosmetic or functional or both. Cosmetic rhinoplasty simply aims to enhance the patient’s appearance, while functional rhinoplasty is intended to restore function and undo damage to the nose. Repairing a nasal fracture is considered a type of functional rhinoplasty. It is also considered a kind of reconstructive plastic surgery.
There are different techniques when it comes to performing a rhinoplasty procedure. You will get to find out which technique will work best for your situation when you come in for your consultation.
Our surgeon may perform various operations during the rhinoplasty; he may straighten the septum, realign bones and cartilage, strengthen or re-establish the nose’s support or trim a nasal bump. The exact steps involved in the procedure will depend on the extent of your nasal fracture and any additional aesthetic goals you may have.
What Is a Deviated Septum?
The septum is the plate made of cartilage and bone that divides the nose in half. Under normal conditions, it is straight. A crooked or bent septum is described as deviated, and it is a common result of a nasal fracture. A deviated septum can impair breathing and increase the chances of nasal congestion or infection. A deviated septum is one of the most common reasons patients undergo rhinoplasty.
Whether you want to learn more about rhinoplasty because of a nasal fracture, a cosmetic concern or a combination of the two, our double board-certified plastic surgeon can help at the office of Daniel J. Leeman, MD. Contact us at our office in Austin to learn more.