Question: My three-year-old daughter sustained a childhood nose injury to her by running into my husband’s knee. We did not take her to the ER because after some blood and tears, she seemed fine (she felt pain in the nose only to the touch and felt no pain at all the following day). She had no problems breathing. Three weeks later after the bruising seems to be almost 100 percent gone, I’m noticing a bump on the top (bone) part of her nose. A trip to an ENT today completely devastated me when he told me she probably fractured the bone and the bump may or may not go away. Either way, I was informed, nothing could be done at this point. Do you agree?
Answer: Nasal trauma often can be best addressed within the first few weeks, because the bones are mobile and easier to align. But, we can also address fractures in a delayed fashion, so I would recommend that she be evaluated to see if she would potentially benefit from surgery for the childhood nose injury. We would be very happy to see her in the office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, a childhood nose injury can result in a visible bump on the nose weeks after the initial trauma as swelling subsides and the underlying bone or cartilage settles into a displaced position.
It is possible for pain to diminish quickly after a nose injury, especially if the initial impact was mild. However, the absence of pain does not rule out the possibility of a fracture or other internal damage.
Nasal fractures are best addressed within the first few weeks after injury when the nasal bones are still mobile and easier to realign. Early intervention generally leads to better outcomes.
Yes, nasal bone fractures can still be treated several weeks after injury, although correction may be more challenging. A proper evaluation by a specialist can determine whether surgery or other interventions might help.
Parents should have their child evaluated by an ENT specialist or facial plastic surgeon to assess the injury and discuss potential treatment options, including the possibility of surgical correction if appropriate.
Surgery is not always necessary; some nasal fractures heal well without intervention. However, if a deformity such as a bump persists and causes concern, surgery may be recommended to realign the nasal bones and improve appearance and function.
