Injuries to the cartilaginous structures of the nose can arise after minor trauma and without a concomitant nasal fracture. They are diagnosed with a thorough clinical examination and can, if not diagnosed and treated in the acute phase, result in nasal/septal deformation, saddle nose or abscess formation with subsequent intracranial spreading of the infection. Even with proper treatment in the acute phase, the cartilage often heals with deviation. This can result in functional and cosmetic problems which may require later reconstructive surgery, as argued in this review.