How effective is CO2 laser resurfacing for rhinophyma?

Rhinophyma is thickened, enlarged nasal skin associated with longstanding rosacea. A CO2 laser can vaporise or reshape excess surface tissue with controlled precision, helping restore a more defined contour and smoother texture. It does not remove the underlying tendency to rosacea, and redness, visible vessels or active inflammation may need separate management. The clinician must balance tissue removal with protection of the nasal framework and normal healing.

Ask for assessment of active rosacea, medicines, previous wound-healing problems and cold sores before treatment. Follow wound-care instructions exactly, including cleansing and the prescribed ointment or dressing. Do not pick crusts or expose healing skin to strong sunlight. Keep review appointments so the clinician can check infection, granulation and contour as the nose heals. Discuss how ongoing rosacea treatment and trigger avoidance will support the result.

Report increasing pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, foul drainage, heavy bleeding or sudden worsening swelling. A change in nasal shape, difficulty breathing through the nose or a wound that is not healing should be reviewed promptly. Emergency care is appropriate for breathing difficulty, rapidly spreading facial swelling or severe bleeding. Do not apply unapproved antiseptics or steroid creams to the wound without advice.

Ask how much tissue can be reshaped safely, whether active rosacea should be controlled first, what wound care is expected and how nasal breathing will be protected. Ask how recurrence or renewed thickening will be managed and whether another technique better suits your tissue pattern.