Dermatology/Rhinophyma

The UltraPulse laser can effectively treat both rosacea & rhinophyma

Rhinophyma is a condition that affects the nose, most commonly related to an inflammatory skin disease called rosacea. It typically presents textural irregularities with areas of thickened skin and enlarged prominent pores. It also presents an irregular contour or “cauliflower nose”, as it known.  

The chronic inflammatory skin condition can occur in conjunction with other signs and symptoms of rosacea, such as spots on the cheeks or chin, associated with redness that typically flares up with alcohol consumption, stress and heat. 

Whilst rhinophyma does not generally give symptoms of pain or itching, it can be severely debilitating and can lead to social embarrassment and isolation. Unfortunately, the condition does not improve spontaneously and in many cases can slowly progress and worsen the nasal skin.  

Rhinophyma is a condition that is part of rosacea and there are some triggers, which can worsen the condition such as alcohol consumption, stress, spicy food or cold wind.  

Whilst these trigger factors typically worsen the redness and so-called “inflammatory rosacea” with the typical spots on the nose, cheeks, and chin; they can worsen the condition of rhinophyma too. 

At 152 Harley Street, treatment for both rhinophyma and Rosacea is possible. We have expert Consultant Dermatologists specialised in cosmetic and laser treatments. 

A highly effective treatment for men and women with rhinophyma is the UltraPulse CO2 laser. During the surgical treatment, the laser works to remove the excess tissue on the nose due to the skin disorder.  

The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic and, therefore, no pain or discomfort is experienced.  

The laser has been used for many years in the treatment and in skilled hands can give excellent cosmetic results. Though there are some other laser and energy-based modalities treatments for rhinophyma, the current medical literature has the strongest evidence with carbon dioxide laser.

Treatment for rhinophyma is very popular to avoid long term symptoms and permanent disfigurement of the affected area. Most patients aim to alleviate symptoms of discomfort social embarrassment feelings and isolation. 

Laser treatments are performed under local anaesthetic and, therefore, no pain or discomfort is felt during the treatment. 

The treatment with the carbon dioxide laser is very effective but does require good wound care and commitment. Immediately following treatment, the nose will have a slightly charred appearance with an open wound that may have some oozing. A special ointment for wound care and healing will be applied and covered with a special dressing

Our medical consultants give specific wound care advice to our patients. In total,  it may take 3-4 weeks for complete healing. However, you can continue to work or study during this time. 

Whilst theoretically any condition can recur or relapse following treatment, rhinophyma generally does not tend to recur after carbon dioxide Laser Treatment. However, it is important that surgical treatments are performed accurately and in the hands of a specialist Consultant Dermatologist. 

You can opt for a treatment of a small area or part of the nose. In those cases, our Consultant Laser Dermatologist will ensure a nice and smooth transition, with no obvious areas of demarcation. 

After the laser treatment, complete healing usually takes about three to four weeks.

The price for treatment for rhinophyma starts from approximately £2,400 which includes both consultant and facility fees. The total cost will be confirmed following the initial consultation. 

Procedure Overview

  • CO2 laser used to treat and remove rhinophyma  
  • Rhinophyma doesn’t usually cause pain and discomfort but can lead to feelings of social embarrassment  
  • Typically takes three to four weeks to completely heal from treatment  
  • Procedure carried out under local anaesthetic and reduced pain and discomfort experienced during the procedure  
  • Cost of treatment varies between each patient but a typical procedure costs around £2,400
  • You will have an initial consultation with an expert specialist in this area 

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