Rhinophyma 

Rhinophyma

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Rhinophyma is a type of rosacea which affects the nose causing thickened skin and enlarged sebaceous (oil) glands. The skin has a red appearance with prominent blood vessels, which may be red or purplish in color. The affected skin may be bulbous and have an uneven contour due to enlarged pores and an  overproduction of sebum. In certain cases, scarring may occur.  

 

Rhinophyma predominantly affects male patients between ages 50–70. Generally, fair-skinned people with an Irish, English, Scottish, or Eastern European background are at a higher risk and heredity plays a role.   

 

Rhinophyma can affect the skin on the tip, sides, and top of the nose, generally starting on the lower half of the nose. Rhinophyma can be cosmetically unsightly as skin thickening may result in irregular nodular growth and deformity of the nose.

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Treatment for Rhinophyma

 

The Fractionated CO2 carbon dioxide laser enables the practitioner to effectively treat at deeper levels in the skin. Often, the rhinophyma can be effectively treated in a single session however, in certain cases, a second procedure may be necessary. Laser treatment is often combined with loop cautery and dermabrasion during the procedure.  

 

What to Expect

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• The procedure is performed under local anesthetic and you will have medications to help alleviate discomfort during the procedure.  

• You will need to have a ride home after the procedure.  

• After the procedure, the skin will look red and raw with oozing expected on the day of the procedure.  Vaseline and a dressing will be applied after the procedure and you will change this dressing out as needed. Applying pressure to the nose area to help with oozing after the procedure.  

• Aftercare is simple. A generous amount of Vaseline should be applied to the treated area 2–3 times a day to keep the skin from drying out, and the treated area should be gently cleansed with soap and water daily. Swelling around the nose and eyes will occur during the first three days after the procedure. Applying ice packs (or a packet of frozen peas) for about 15 minutes every hour can help reduce swelling.  

• You should not experience significant pain after the procedure. If you have mild discomfort, Acetaminophen or Tylenol may be taken as directed.