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Rhinophyma
Overview
Rhinophyma is a condition that causes thickening and distortion of the nose due to progressive enlargement of the skin and sebaceous (oil) glands. Often associated with rosacea, rhinophyma can significantly impact both appearance and quality of life. Our surgical and non-surgical treatments aim to restore a more natural nasal contour, improve skin texture, and help you feel more confident.
Rhinophyma is a rare, severe form of rosacea that leads to gradual thickening, redness, and bulbous overgrowth of the nasal skin. It most commonly affects men over the age of 50 and can range from mild irregularity to significant disfigurement.
The condition is benign but can cause emotional distress, nasal obstruction, or difficulty with hygiene if left untreated. Treatment focuses on reducing excess tissue, improving nasal contour, and enhancing skin quality.
Indications
Rhinophyma treatment is recommended for individuals who experience:
- Bulbous, swollen appearance of the nose
- Thickened nasal skin or enlarged pores
- Facial disfigurement or asymmetry
- Redness, visible blood vessels, or chronic inflammation
- Impaired nasal function (in advanced cases)
- Social or emotional discomfort due to appearance
Treatment may also be considered if there is concern about coexisting skin cancer within the rhinophymatous tissue (rare but possible).
Benefits
- Restores Normal Nasal Contour: Reduces size, volume, and irregularity of the nose
- Improves Skin Texture: Smooths thickened or nodular tissue
- Enhances Facial Balance: Results in a more natural, proportionate appearance
- Boosts Confidence: Alleviates self-consciousness and social anxiety
- Promotes Nasal Function: Opens nasal passages if obstruction is present
- Permanent Results: Once removed, tissue does not typically regrow to previous levels
Rhinophyma is treated by removing excess tissue, smoothing the skin, and reshaping the nasal surface. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia for minor cases or sedation/general anesthesia for more extensive cases.
Treatment options depend on the severity and location of the tissue overgrowth. The primary goal is to debulk the thickened tissue without damaging underlying structures such as cartilage.
Techniques Used
We use a variety of surgical and dermatologic techniques to address rhinophyma, including:
1) Scalpel Excision or Tangential Excision
• Carefully removes layers of hypertrophied tissue using a scalpel
• Preserves underlying nasal structure
• Allows for immediate contouring and reshaping
2) CO₂ or Erbium Laser Resurfacing
• Vaporizes excess tissue and smooths the skin surface
• Offers precise control and can be used alone or in combination with scalpel techniques
• Helps improve redness and texture
3) Electrosurgery or Radiofrequency Ablation
• Uses heat energy to sculpt and shrink enlarged tissue
• Minimally invasive and effective for mild to moderate cases
4) Dermabrasion
• Mechanical exfoliation of thickened skin after initial debulking
• Enhances final skin smoothness and contour
We tailor each treatment to the patient’s anatomy, severity of rhinophyma, and personal goals. In some cases, staged treatments may be recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rhinophyma dangerous?
Rhinophyma is not cancerous or life-threatening, but it can cause emotional distress and nasal obstruction in advanced cases. Early treatment helps prevent progression.
Will my nose look normal again?
While complete reversal depends on severity, most patients see dramatic improvement in nasal size, shape, and skin texture with treatment.
How long is recovery?
Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks. Redness may persist longer, but visible swelling and scabbing subside as healing progresses. We provide detailed aftercare instructions.
Will rhinophyma come back after treatment?
With proper care and rosacea management, recurrence is uncommon. However, minor touch-ups may be needed over time in some cases.
What are the risks?
Like any surgical procedure, rhinophyma carries risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, poor wound healing, difficulty breathing, dissatisfaction with results, and need for revision surgery. A comprehensive conversation with your surgeon should address these concerns.