Rhinophyma Treatment

Rhinophyma is a skin condition that affects the skin on the nose, causing a thickening and reddening that can create functional and form issues. The condition is not overly common but can be similar and related to acne rosacea. For extreme cases, rhinophyma can disfigure the shape of the nose, especially the tip and base, making it appear red and bulbous in appearance. Treatment for rhinophyma is available at the New York City facial plastic surgery clinic of Dr. Rousso.

Treating rhinophyma can help reduce the thickness of the skin and reshape the tip and base of the nose. Each case is carefully examined by Dr. Rousso to determine the best options in treatment. Laser surgery and other treatments can be considered to remove diseased tissue and skin on the nose to reshape and contour the nose. In some cases, rhinophyma can cause nasal valve collapse at the frontal area of the nose that may also need to be addressed to improve breathing and airway function.

Causes and Symptoms of Rhinophyma

The exact causes of rhinophyma are not known. The condition is more common in male patients, especially those above the age of fifty. Rhinophyma is related to rosacea and those with severe, chronic rosacea are more prone to developing this condition. Those with fair skin of Irish, English, Scottish or Scandinavian descent are at higher risk for developing rhinophyma.

Symptoms usually begin to occur well into adulthood, after the mid-twenties. Symptoms include:

• Redness or flushing on the nose
• Enlarged pores and excessive oil glands
• Gradual increase in the size of the tip/base of the nose
• A bulbous appearance to the nose
• Thickened skin that can appear waxy or rough

If you have noticed a change in the appearance of your nose that has these symptoms, you may have rhinophyma. Treatment can help improve the appearance of your nose and prevent nasal valve collapse or other issues. Contact the office of Dr. Rousso in Manhattan for a consultation to learn more about rhinophyma treatment.