Getting Ready for Broken Nose Repair

How is the procedure done?

• The goal is to set the nasal bones back into their normal position soon after the break.
• Sometimes the septum (the wall between your nostrils) is broken too and needs to be set as well.
• The procedure uses blunt instruments. There is no cutting and there are no scars.
• It is done under local anesthesia, sedation or general anesthesia. Most people go home the same day.

What are the risks?

Every procedure has risks. Your surgeon will go over them with you, and you can ask about any of them.

• Anesthesia is safe, but it has some risks. The anesthesia team can go over them with you. Tell us if anyone in your family has had a problem with anesthesia.
• Pain, bleeding and infection are risks of any procedure.
• Numb upper front teeth. This is usually temporary.
• Loss of smell is rare.
• Leak of brain fluid is a rare complication that could lead to a serious infection such as meningitis.
• A hole in the septum (septal perforation) can happen if the septum was broken. It often causes no symptoms, but it can cause crusting, bleeding or a whistling sound when you breathe, and may need to be repaired.
• A blood clot in the septum (septal hematoma) can damage the cartilage and make the top of the nose sink if it is not treated. Call us right away for new, worsening pain or pressure in the nose, or a nose that is completely blocked on both sides.
• The nose may not go fully back into place, depending on how bad the break is and how long ago it happened. Then a later repair (open reduction) may be needed, usually at least 6 to 12 months later.

How do I get ready?

• As soon as surgery is scheduled

  • Give us a list of every medicine, vitamin and supplement you take. We will tell you which to stop and when.
  • If you smoke or vape, stop now. Stopping helps your body heal and makes anesthesia safer, and the earlier you stop, the better: aim for at least 4 weeks before surgery, though even 2 weeks helps. Stay off until your surgeon says you have healed.
  • Plan time off. Most people can go back to work or school the next day.
  • Protect your nose. Avoid anything that could bump it again before and after the procedure.
  • Arrange for an adult to drive you home. After general anesthesia, we recommend having an adult stay with you the first night.

• 1 to 2 weeks before

  • Aspirin is usually stopped 1 to 2 weeks before surgery. If you take aspirin or a blood thinner for your heart, a stent or stroke prevention, do not stop it on your own: your surgeon will check with whoever prescribes it.
  • Ask us whether to pause ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve).
  • Ask about herbal remedies and supplements, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo or garlic pills, which can raise the chance of bleeding.
  • If you take insulin or other diabetes medicines, ask how to take them before surgery.
  • Get the supplies in the next section.

• The night before

  • Follow the eating and drinking instructions from our office or the surgery center exactly. If you eat or drink when you should not, surgery may need to be postponed for safety.
  • Many places ask for nothing to eat after midnight, and some allow clear liquids until a few hours before.
  • Take only the medicines we said to take that morning, with a small sip of water.
  • Get a good night’s sleep.

• The day of surgery

  • Wear comfortable clothes and a top that buttons or zips in the front, so you do not pull it over your nose afterward.
  • Wear glasses instead of contact lenses, and leave jewelry and valuables at home.
  • Bring your photo ID, insurance card and list of medicines.

What happens after the procedure?

• Most people go home the same day and can go back to work or school the next day.
• A splint is placed on the outside of the nose. Leave it in place for 1 week.
• No heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 2 weeks. The nose is very fragile for 2 weeks and somewhat fragile for several weeks after that, so avoid anything that could injure it.
• Your follow-up visit is about 1 week after the procedure.

The Broken Nose Recovery Guide has everything you need after the procedure, including when to call us.

When should I call before surgery?