Rhinophyma is a skin condition that is in the rosacea family of skin disorders for which the cause is unknown. It is more common in men between the ages of 50 to 70 years. Persons with this condition typically have a large, red, bumpy or even bulbous nose. This condition can be mild or severe.
Treatment of this condition is based on the severity of the disease. For mild cases, Secret RF (radiofrequency delivered using microneedles) or Carbon Dioxide Laser Resurfacing can be used. Of the two, Dr. Bader favors the Secret RF as the glands can be treated with little or no damage to the top layer of skin, thus shrinking the nose while having minimal downtime. This procedure should not be confused with “microneedling” alone, which is not beneficial. The carbon dioxide laser created damage to the epidermis and dermis, thus increasing healing time.
For moderate and severe cases, surgical planning of the skin works best. With this procedure, the epidermis and much of the dermis is shaved off using a scalpel or an electro-surgical instrument. The results are often excellent, but healing takes several weeks.
It is recommended that one choose a surgeon who is highly experienced with these treatments.