Specialized Treatment for Rhinophyma
Rhinophyma is a skin disorder that causes the nose to
enlarge and become red, bumpy, and bulbous. It is thought to result from
untreated, severe rosacea, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes
facial redness on the nose and cheeks.
Although rhinophyma was once thought to be caused by heavy
alcohol use, that is not correct. Rhinophyma occurs equally in people who drink
no alcohol and those who drink heavily. The condition can lead to permanent
disfigurement if left untreated.
Our experienced skin care specialists at UT Southwestern
have years of training in dermatology and plastic surgery
and are involved in research to improve the diagnosis and treatment of all
types of skin conditions, including rhinophyma. We offer compassionate care and
effective treatment that restores a natural appearance and improves quality of
life for our patients.
Causes and Risk Factors of Rhinophyma
The exact causes of rhinophyma are unknown, but certain
factors can increase the risk of this rare disorder. These risk factors
include:
- Age: Rhinophyma
is typically diagnosed between age 50 and 70.
- Gender:
Men are more likely to develop the condition than women.
- Complexion: Fair-skinned people are more likely to have
rhinophyma.
- Ethnicity: People with an Irish, English, Scottish,
Scandinavian, or Eastern European background are at a higher risk.
- Family history: People with family members who have had
rosacea or rhinophyma are at a higher risk.
Symptoms of Rhinophyma
Rhinophyma usually develops in more severe cases of rosacea.
Its signs and symptoms can occur in cycles and become worse if left untreated.
Signs and symptoms that affect the nose include:
- Gradual changes in appearance
to a swollen, bulbous shape
- Many visible oil glands
- Enlarged skin pores
- Reddish skin color
- Thickened skin
- Waxy, rough, yellowish surface
Diagnosing Rhinophyma
Our experienced team conducts a thorough evaluation, which includes a:
- Physical exam
- Discussion of personal and family medical
history
Usually, we can diagnose rhinophyma with this information,
without the need for further testing. We sometimes perform a skin biopsy to
confirm the diagnosis, especially in patients whose condition does not improve
with treatment. In a biopsy, we take a small sample of skin cells to examine
under a microscope.
Treatment for Rhinophyma
For rhinophyma, surgery is usually the main treatment to:
- Reshape a disfigured nose
- Remove tissue overgrowth
- Minimize enlarged blood
vessels
- Improve appearance and
breathing ability
Our cosmetic and plastic surgeons also treat rhinophyma
with:
- Laser resurfacing to
reshape the nose
- Dermabrasion using a
small, rotating device to remove the top layers of skin
In more severe cases, treatment consists of shaving down the
bulk of the tissue with a sharp instrument or surgical cautery and
allowing the area to heal with monitored dressing changes or skin grafting.