Rhinophyma

We offer modern and effective treatment with carbon dioxide laser that is adapted depending on the type of rhinophyma you have.

Rhinophyma is a condition in which the sebaceous glands on the nose grow abnormally, resulting in a bumpy and enlarged nose. In popular parlance, there are various boring names such as drunkard's nose, port wine nose, blue nose, cauliflower nose, etc.

Rhinophyma is sometimes called the end stage of rosacea, which is a common skin condition. A few percent of rosacea patients suffer from rhinophyma, and although rosacea is more common in women, rhinophyma is more common in men.

Larger rhinophyma often negatively affects the patient's quality of life and many people experience people staring or looking at their nose instead of their eyes. Despite this, it is a benign condition and is not given much priority in public healthcare.

The classic treatment has been surgery where the excess tissue is cut away, a procedure that is bloody and leaves a raw wound surface that has to heal like a scrape. A more modern and very effective way to treat rhinophyma is with a carbon dioxide laser where the tissue is gradually burned away layer by layer. For larger and deeper areas, the treatment may need to be repeated.

How the Process Works

During your first visit to the dermatologist, the diagnosis is made and, if treatment with a carbon dioxide laser is appropriate, you will agree on a suitable time and how much it will cost. The treatment can be compared to a controlled burn of the skin on the nose and is done under local anesthesia. You can also get some sedative medication beforehand, but you will not be allowed to drive. After the treatment, a scab forms on the nose, which can be dark red to black and lasts for 1-2 weeks, depending on how deep the treatment was. The scab should be lubricated with ointment that you receive from us and sometimes there may be fluid from the area. You will be given something to take with you so that you can reposition your nose at home if necessary.

There is a small risk of infection, so we would like you to come back for a follow-up visit after about a week. Depending on the size of the rhinophyma, the treatment may need to be repeated and you will agree with your dermatologist when it is appropriate.

Before and after pictures