The nose is especially vulnerable to impact injuries, and the nasal bones are the most commonly fractured on the face. Injury to the cartilage often accompanies a nasal fracture; these injuries are typically painful and result in significant swelling and bruising. A fracture can displace the bones and the cartilage, altering the flow of air through the nose, and can result in bleeding within the nasal passages. As an immediate action, applying ice to the area as soon as possible helps contain the swelling. To confirm a nasal fracture completely, the doctor may order X-rays of the face. The doctor often can repair a simple nasal fracture by external manipulation done with local anaesthesia. On the other hand, an injury that is more extensive than a simple nasal fracture typically requires surgery to return the bones to their normal positions. The bones become set in about a week; the fracture heals fully in four to six weeks. Nevertheless, most nasal fractures heal effectively and have no long-term consequences.