How long does CO2 laser resurfacing take to work for rhinophyma?

Rhinophyma involves thickened, enlarged nasal skin. CO2 laser resurfacing removes or vaporises selected surface tissue so the nose can heal with a smoother contour. Redness, crusting, tenderness and swelling can make the treated area look different from the eventual result during the first phase of recovery. The treatment may improve excess tissue without removing the underlying tendency toward rosacea, so ongoing assessment matters.

Follow the wound-care instructions given by your dermatologist, keep the area clean as directed, and do not pick crusts. Protect healing skin from sunlight once your clinician permits it, because irritation and pigment changes can follow treatment. Avoid adding acids, retinoids or fragranced products until the skin barrier has recovered. Arrange the planned review so your clinician can assess healing and decide whether further treatment is appropriate.

Contact the treating clinic promptly for increasing pain, spreading redness, worsening warmth, pus-like drainage, fever, bleeding that does not settle with the advised pressure, or breathing difficulty. A small change in appearance during healing can be expected, but rapidly worsening symptoms need assessment rather than waiting for the scheduled review.

Ask when your nose should be reviewed, which changes are expected at each healing stage, how to care for crusted skin, whether your rosacea needs separate treatment, and what signs would suggest infection or delayed healing.