A broken nose—also called a nasal fracture—is one of the most common facial injuries. Whether it's caused by a sports accident, a fall, or a simple everyday mishap, dealing with it can be uncomfortable and a little worrying. One of the biggest questions people ask after the swelling and soreness begin is:
“How long does a broken nose take to heal?”
The short answer: it usually takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the injury.
But there’s much more to understand—especially if you want to heal properly, avoid long-term issues, and get back to feeling like yourself.
Below is a full, beginner-friendly guide to healing times, what affects recovery, and how to make the process smoother.
Understanding What a Broken Nose Really Is 🦴
A broken nose means there’s a crack or break in the bone or cartilage of the nose. It can happen from:
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Accidental bumps
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Sports collisions
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Falls
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A blow to the face
Symptoms usually include swelling, tenderness, bruising around the eyes, stuffiness, and a change in nose shape. While it sounds alarming, most nasal fractures are treatable and heal well with proper care.
So… How Long Does a Broken Nose Take to Heal?
Average Healing Time
Most broken noses heal in 2 to 3 weeks for minor fractures.
More serious fractures may take up to 6 weeks.
Timeline Breakdown
Here’s what recovery typically looks like:
Days 1–3:
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Swelling peaks
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Bruising may appear
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Breathing may feel stuffy
Days 4–7:
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Swelling begins to settle
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Doctors may wait until this stage to fix alignment if needed
Weeks 2–3:
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Most visible signs fade
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Minor fractures may feel nearly normal
Weeks 4–6:
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Bones solidify
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You can usually return to regular physical activities
Of course, everyone heals differently. Age, overall health, and how the injury happened all play a role.
Factors That Affect Healing Time ⏳
Your recovery might be faster or slower depending on:
✔ Severity of the Break
A simple crack heals faster than a displaced fracture where the nose shifts out of place.
✔ Age and Health
Younger, healthier people recover sooner because their bodies repair tissue more efficiently.
✔ How Quickly You Get Treatment
Seeing a doctor early helps prevent complications and may shorten recovery.
✔ Post-Injury Care
Proper care—like avoiding pressure, managing swelling, and not bumping the nose—helps healing go smoothly.
What Helps a Broken Nose Heal Faster?
While only time can fully heal a nasal fracture, these tips make the process easier:
1. Apply a Cold Compress
Gently place a cold pack on the nose for 10–15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
Avoid pressing hard.
2. Keep Your Head Elevated
Sleeping with your head raised reduces swelling and discomfort.
3. Avoid Sports or Activities With Collision Risk
Even light bumps can delay healing.
4. Follow Medical Advice Carefully
If a doctor realigns your nose or prescribes specific care instructions, stick to the plan.
5. Be Patient With Exercise
Light activities are okay, but anything involving impact or heavy breathing should wait until your doctor approves.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Get medical help if you notice:
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Difficulty breathing
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Noticeable change in the nose’s shape
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Severe swelling that doesn’t improve
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Frequent nosebleeds
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Clear fluid leaking from the nose
Early treatment helps prevent long-term issues like breathing problems or cosmetic concerns.
Possible Complications (And Why Healing Time Sometimes Takes Longer)
Most broken noses heal well, but complications can extend the recovery timeline. These may include:
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Septal deviation (a shift inside the nose affecting airflow)
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Persistent blockages
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Cartilage damage
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Sinus problems
If healing doesn’t feel normal after a few weeks, it’s always safer to check with a healthcare professional.
What to Expect After the Full Healing Period
Once you reach the 4–6 week mark, most people:
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Experience no pain
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Can breathe normally
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Can return to sports with your doctor’s approval
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See the nose return to its typical shape
For a minority of cases where the nose remains crooked or breathing is affected, medical correction might be recommended later on.
So, how long does a broken nose take to heal?
For most people, somewhere between 2 to 6 weeks—but the exact timeline depends on how your body responds and how well you take care of the injury.
The good news: nasal fractures are common and very treatable. With proper attention, patience, and the right care, you can expect a smooth recovery.