What should you know about laser surgery for rhinophyma?

Rhinophyma is thickening and enlargement of the nose associated with advanced changes of rosacea. It can create an uneven surface, prominent pores and a heavier nasal contour. A laser may vaporise or cut away selected layers of thickened tissue while allowing the clinician to refine the shape. CO2 laser resurfacing is one approach; electrosurgery or another surgical method may be more suitable in some cases.

The procedure can leave an open, tender healing surface. Redness, swelling, oozing and crusting may be expected early on. Healing time varies with the depth treated and the amount of tissue removed. Treatment improves bulk and contour but does not necessarily stop rosacea activity, so a plan for ongoing skin care may be needed.

Discuss nasal breathing, bleeding medicines, smoking, previous poor healing and any active rosacea flare before scheduling treatment. Arrange the recommended cleansing, ointment and dressing supplies. During healing, keep the area clean as directed, avoid picking crusts and protect new skin from sunlight. Ask whether redness-control treatment or another rosacea plan should continue around the procedure.

Call the clinic for bleeding that does not stop with the instructed pressure, increasing pain, spreading redness, foul drainage or fever. Seek urgent assessment if swelling interferes with breathing or if you develop a severe reaction to a prescribed medicine. A change in nasal shape during healing should be reviewed rather than self-treated.

Ask how much tissue needs reshaping, why laser is preferred over electrosurgery or another method, how rosacea will be managed, and what nasal wound care is expected at home.