Skull · Flat bone
Nasal Bones
The nasal bones are two small bones that form the bridge of the nose. The lower part of the nose is cartilage, which is why the tip is flexible.
What it is
The nasal bones are two small, rectangular bones that join in the midline to form the upper bony bridge of the nose.
Where it is
The upper middle of the face, forming the bridge of the nose.
What it does
Form and support the bridge of the nose and protect the upper nasal passages.
Connections
Joints and connections
- Sutures with the frontal bone and maxilla
When things go wrong
Common injuries and conditions
- Broken nose (nasal fracture) — one of the most common facial fractures
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms; it is not a diagnosis. A severe injury, a visibly deformed limb, or the inability to move or bear weight needs urgent assessment — call 999 or go to A&E for a serious injury.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
Only the top third of the nose is bone; the rest is cartilage, which is why the tip bends but the bridge can break.
Answers
Nasal Bones: frequently asked questions
Is the nose a bone?
Only the bridge of the nose is bone (the nasal bones). The lower nose is made of flexible cartilage, which is why the tip can move.
Explore the skull
Related bones
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake, Vogl, Mitchell)
- TeachMeAnatomy — skeletal system
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