Does electrosurgery treat rhinophyma?

Rhinophyma is thickening and enlargement of the nose associated with advanced changes of rosacea. The skin can become uneven, oily, nodular, and difficult to contour. Electrosurgery can remove or reduce superficial excess tissue, while medical treatment may still be needed for active rosacea symptoms.

The nose has a visible, delicate shape and a rich blood supply, so the clinician must assess the tissue depth, breathing, skin condition, and any suspicious area before choosing a technique. Improvement in contour does not necessarily address every feature of rosacea.

Seek assessment from a dermatologist or surgeon experienced in rhinophyma procedures. Bring a list of skin medicines and mention easy bleeding, previous operations, nasal blockage, or a history of raised scars. The consultation should cover the intended contour, anaesthesia, wound care, and how rosacea will be managed afterward.

Healing can involve swelling, tenderness, oozing, and a crusted surface. Follow dressing and cleansing instructions carefully, avoid rubbing the nose, and protect healing skin from sun exposure. Do not restart or stop prescribed rosacea medicines without checking with the treating clinician.

Arrange prompt review for a new sore, persistent bleeding, a rapidly changing nodule, or worsening nasal blockage. After treatment, seek help for uncontrolled bleeding, increasing swelling, spreading redness, fever, foul drainage, or breathing difficulty.

Ask how much tissue can be reduced safely, whether electrosurgery suits your nose, how breathing will be protected, what wound care is required, and how recurrence or rosacea activity will be monitored.