Nasal and Facial Fracture
A nasal and facial fracture refers to a break or crack in the bones of the nose and face. These fractures can result from various types of trauma, such as falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or physical altercations. The two main types of fractures in this context are nasal fractures and facial fractures:
Nasal fractures - These are the most common facial fractures and involve a break in the nasal bones, which form the bridge of the nose. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty breathing through the nose, a crooked appearance, and, in some cases, a visible deformity.
Facial fractures - These fractures involve the bones of the face other than the nasal bones. Some common facial fractures include:
Maxillary (upper jaw) fractures
Zygomatic (cheekbone) fractures
Orbital (eye socket) fractures
Mandibular (lower jaw) fractures
Le Fort fractures (complex fractures of the midface)
Symptoms
Symptoms of facial fractures may include:
Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Numbness
Tingling
Difficulty opening the mouth or speaking
Changes in facial appearance
Problems with vision or eye movement
Causes
Nasal and facial fractures are usually caused by some form of trauma or impact to the face.
Treatment
Options
The severity and location of fracture(s) should first be visualized with an X-ray or CT scan. The type of treatment will depend on the location and severity of the fracture(s). Minor fractures may heal on their own; however, more severe and/or complex fractures may require surgical reconstruction.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are suffering from a nasal or facial fracture, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified and fellowship trained in rhinology, our physician at Sensa Health has extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of nose conditions. Call or text our office at 213-267-2256 to schedule an appointment today.