What should you know about rhinophyma stages?

Early change may look like persistent redness, visible pores or a slightly swollen nose. With more established rhinophyma, oil glands and connective tissue can enlarge, producing a thicker, uneven or lobulated surface. Advanced change can alter the outline of the nose and make cleansing, wearing glasses or breathing through the nostrils more difficult. These descriptions are guides, not a diagnosis. Rosacea is the underlying condition commonly associated with rhinophyma; read about [Rosacea](/conditions/rosacea/).

Photographing the nose in consistent lighting can help you notice gradual change, but a clinician should assess texture and growth. Use mild skincare and avoid picking, abrasive scrubs and unprescribed steroid creams. Treating active rosacea may reduce inflammation, while established excess tissue may need a procedure. Options can include [CO2 Laser Resurfacing](/treatments/laser-and-energy/co2-laser-resurfacing/) or [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/), selected according to tissue depth, contour and healing needs.

Book a dermatology review if thickening persists, the surface becomes nodular, or the appearance changes over weeks or months. Seek prompt assessment for bleeding, ulceration, marked pain, pus, fever, sudden swelling or new obstruction of breathing. A changing lesion should not be assigned a stage from photographs alone.

Ask what features support rhinophyma, whether rosacea is active elsewhere, and whether the tissue is stable. Discuss the aim of treatment, expected wound care and how nasal function will be protected.