Does A Weird Sensation In The Nose After Punch And Previous History Of Injuries Mean Surgery Is Required ?

My friend has had his nose broken twice in the past and was told by a doctor that if there was more trauma he would need surgery. Recently after he got drunk, he got into a fight and believes he might've been punched in the nose. His nose has a weird sensation now and he blew his nose hard and a little flat white piece came out. he thinks it is cartilage and he's scared. What could it be?