NOSE / NOSE AND FACIAL INJURY
Broken Nose and Facial Injury Assessment in Bintulu, Sarawak
Assessment and treatment of nose fractures and nasal injuries by consultant ENT surgeon Dr. Yasmin at Kemena Pacific Hospital.
WhatsApp the clinicWhat is a nose fracture?
A nose fracture is a break in the bone or cartilage of the nose, usually from a fall, sports injury, road accident or blow to the face. It can change the shape of the nose and block breathing.
Signs of a nose injury
- Pain, swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes
- A nose that looks bent or crooked
- Nosebleed
- Difficulty breathing through one or both sides
- Swelling inside the nose
What to do after a nose injury
- Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling.
- Treat any nosebleed by leaning forward and pinching the nose.
- Go to the emergency department straight away for heavy bleeding, clear fluid from the nose, vision changes, loss of consciousness or other facial injuries.
- Book an ENT review within about a week, once the swelling has started to settle.
How Dr. Yasmin assesses and treats nose injuries
Dr. Yasmin examines the shape of the nose and the inside of the nose, including the septum. A collection of blood on the septum needs urgent drainage. If the nose bones have moved, they can often be put back into position (nasal fracture reduction), ideally within about two weeks of the injury. Later breathing problems from a bent septum can be corrected with septal surgery. Wider facial bone injuries are coordinated with the appropriate specialist team.
When to see an ENT specialist
- A nose that looks different after an injury
- A blocked nose after an injury
- Swelling inside the nose
- Repeated nosebleeds after an injury
FAQs
How soon should I see a doctor after breaking my nose?
Within about a week, so the nose can be assessed once swelling settles and straightened within two weeks if needed.
Does a broken nose always need surgery?
No. If the nose is straight and you can breathe well, no treatment may be needed.
Can a crooked nose be fixed later?
Yes, but it usually needs a larger operation once the bones have healed, so early assessment is better.