Rhinophyma
Rhinophyma

Rhinophyma Melbourne

Rhinophyma is a disfiguring skin condition of the nose that affects many people every year. It is a progressive condition wherein the skin becomes thickened and the sebaceous (oil) glands enlarge.

The skin can remain skin-coloured, but frequently becomes red and often has prominent blood vessels, which may be thin and red (telangiectasia), or larger and purplish in hue (venulectasias). The affected skin usually becomes bulbous and pitted due to prominent pores (which may ooze sebum or contain a scaly plug), and scarred.

Typically, rhinophyma affects the tip of the nose, although the sides and skin on the top of the nose can also be affected. Rhinophyma can be cosmetically unsightly, as skin thickening may result in irregular nodular growth and eventually can cause deformity of the nose.

Rhinophyma was typically associated with alcoholics in the past due to their large red noses, however, this is not accurate – rhinophyma is a type of rosacea. Other manifestations of rosacea may or may not be present. Occasionally, rhinophyma is preceded by acne.

It’s important to note that rhinophyma can be treated. At ENRICH Clinic, we have been successfully treating rhinophyma for years. 

What Causes Rhinophyma?

The cause of rhinophyma is not fully understood.

Theories include:

  • Enlarged blood vessels may predispose to skin thickening.
  • Vascular instability may lead to leakage of fluid into the tissues. This subsequently triggers inflammation and scarring.

Rhinophyma predominantly affects men. The male-to-female ratio in patients with rhinophyma ranges from 5:1 to 30:1. This is possibly due to androgens (male hormones).

Rhinophyma treatment 

Non-surgical management

Treatment of rosacea may inhibit the progression of rhinophyma, but this has not been conclusively confirmed. Medications or topical solutions may be tried initially but are often not the total solution. These solutions could include: 

  1. Topical retinoids.
  2. Oral tetracycline antibiotics.
  3. Oral isotretinoin 

Surgical treatment

Rhinophyma-1-300x300At ENRICH Clinic, we treat rhinophyma with the CO2 laser followed by the Erbium laser to de-bulk and reshape the tissue of the nose, a technique that involves removing the damaged outer layers of the skin.

Laser resurfacing using Erbium and CO2 lasers is a technique that involves removing the damaged outer layers of the skin.

Because the procedure is actual laser resurfacing, it is invasive – but highly effective. 7-10 days downtime at least.

In Dr Rich’s opinion, and with his years of experience treating rhinophyma, this is one of the most effective treatments.

Does rhinophyma come back?

In most cases, rhinophyma does not come back after surgical laser treatment, but everyone reacts differently, and in some cases, it can reoccur.

Does the treatment hurt?

Yes, there is some discomfort -some patients more than others. The process includes the injection of local anesthesia, which is due to the placement, i.e., the nose can be quite uncomfortable at first.  Then, the Erbium reshapes and removes tissue from the affected area.  

How long does the treatment take? 

It is very dependent on the size of the affected area. It can take anywhere from an hour to two hours (including LA injections).

Please contact us today to book a consultation & talk about your rhinophyma.

Please Note:

*With all surgeries or procedures, there are risks. Consult your physician (GP) before undertaking any surgical or cosmetic procedure. Please read the consent forms carefully and be informed about every aspect of your treatment. Some surgeries have a mandatory seven-day cooling-off period to give patients adequate time to be sure of their surgery choice. Results may also vary from person to person due to many factors, including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise. Before and after photos are only relevant to the patient in the photo and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience. Ask questions. Our team of dermatologists, doctors and nurses are here to help you with any of your queries. This page is not advice and is intended to be informational only. We endeavour to keep all our information up to date; however, this site is intended as a guide and not a definitive information portal or in any way constitutes medical advice.

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