Rhinophyma: Definition and Treatments

All you need to know about rhinophyma

Do you have a bump on your nose that will not go away? 

You may have Rhinophyma, a condition that causes the skin on your nose to thicken and swell. While it is not dangerous, it can be embarrassing and make breathing difficult. 

Do not worry, there are treatments available that can help clear up your skin and improve the appearance of your nose. Read on to learn more about Rhinophyma and how to get rid of it for good. 

What is Rhinophyma? 

Rhinophyma is a genetic skin condition of the nose associated with Rosacea. Often referred to as ‘the cauliflower nose’, Rhinophyma presents with a textured phenotype, swollen skin, and pores visibly enlarged and contrasted by an irregular shape.  

While treatment for Rhinophyma cannot change its heredity-based origins, avoiding known triggers such as alcohol consumption, stress, and heat help in prevention.  

Additionally, suppose you suspect or experience symptoms of Rhinophyma. In that case, Rhinophyma, you should consult your dermatologist and seek professional treatment – not only for the physical effects of cosmetic blemishes caused by Rhinophyma but also for the psychological relief from living with this socially disabling condition. 

How To Prevent Rhinophyma? 

When it comes to preventing and managing rhinophyma, there are several important steps that you can take.  

First, protecting your skin from the sun’s harsh rays is essential. Utilizing a sunblock with a sun protection factor of at least 30 is recommended to minimize any chances of an outbreak or flare-up.  

Additionally, lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking tobacco, consuming alcoholic drinks, eating spicy foods, drinking caffeinated drinks, and rubbing the face should be observed. It is also important to limit contact with too much sunlight or extreme temperatures as they can increase facial redness and visible blood vessels.  

While these steps may seem minimal, implementing them into your routine can go a long way in keeping rhinophyma symptoms at bay. 

Treatments of Rhinophyma 

Rhinophyma treatment primarily addresses the underlying rosacea symptoms, with oral Isotretinoin often being the first choice.  

When these medications are used early in the development of rhinophyma, they tend to be more effective. Dermatologists commonly prescribe antibiotics such as Metronidazole, Tetracycline or Erythromycin to reduce redness and inflammation in the affected area.  

They might also recommend a moisturiser to keep the skin from drying out. In more severe cases, longer-term medication may be necessary – as well as regular dermabrasion – to stop further disfigurement from taking place. As always, it is best to start treating Rhinophyma as early as possible for optimal results. 

Even though medication for rhinophyma is improving daily, surgery is sometimes required as a last-resource solution.  

Different techniques like dermaplaning, dermabrasion, electrosurgery, cryotherapy and laser resurfacing have successfully provided short-term solutions and the cosmetic improvement of the skin condition.  

This requires using either a debridement or laser instrument to remove the excessive thickening of the skin with minimum discomfort.  

In most cases, it is set up as a one-day procedure, and anaesthesia can be local or general, depending on individual preference.  

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Rhinophyma is a genetic skin condition that can cause thickening and swelling of the skin on the nose, leading to a textured phenotype, enlarged pores and an irregular shape. While it is not dangerous, it can be socially disabling.  

To prevent and manage Rhinophyma, it is essential to protect the skin from the sun’s harsh rays, avoid known triggers such as alcohol consumption, stress, and heat, and make lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking tobacco and rubbing the face.  

Treatment options are available, including oral Isotretinoin, antibiotics, dermabrasion, and laser resurfacing, with surgery as a last resort. With the proper treatment and preventative measures, Rhinophyma can be managed effectively, and the nose’s appearance can be improved.