It’s not unusual for the nasal cartilage to slowly curve after a nasal fracture. In many cases the nose may actually be straight after the swelling has resolved. With the passage of time the cartilage slowly starts to bend and results in a curved nasal dorsum.
When this situation arises the nose should be critically evaluated. Not only should nasal aesthetics be evaluated, but attention should be given to the nasal airway as well. Under these circumstances, the cartilaginous nasal septum may be deviated as well, with resultant airway obstruction.
When a patient has a crooked nose following trauma, the nasal septum and nasal bones are usually both involved. In many cases patients often develop a dorsal hump as well. Correction of this problem usually requires a rhinoplasty. If nasal airway obstruction is present, a septoplasty may be necessary as well.
In patients with post traumatic nasal deformities with associated functional impairment, consultation with a board certified surgeon is appropriate. It’s never too late to correct post traumatic nasal deformities especially if they’re associated with functional impairment.