Rhinophyma
Bulbous nose; Nose - bulbous; Phymatous rosaceaRhinophyma is a large red-colored (ruddy) nose. The nose has a bulb shape.
Causes
Rhinophyma was once thought to be caused by heavy alcohol use. This is not correct. Rhinophyma occurs equally in people who do not use alcohol and in those who drink heavily. The problem is much more common in men than in women.
The cause of rhinophyma is unknown. It may be a severe form of a skin disease called rosacea. It is an uncommon disorder.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin problem that makes your face turn red. It may also cause swelling and skin sores that look like acne.
Read Article Now Book Mark ArticleSymptoms
Symptoms include changes in the nose, such as:
- Bulb-like (bulbous) shape
- Many oil glands
- Reddish color (possible)
- Thickening of the skin
- Waxy, yellow surface
Exams and Tests
Most of the time, a health care provider can diagnose rhinophyma without any tests. Sometimes a skin biopsy may be needed.
Treatment
The most common treatment is surgery to reshape the nose. Surgery may be done with a laser, scalpel, or rotating brush (dermabrasion). Certain acne medicines may also help treat the condition.
Laser
Laser surgery uses laser energy to treat the skin. Laser surgery can be used to treat skin diseases or cosmetic concerns such as sunspots or wrinkle...
Read Article Now Book Mark ArticleDermabrasion
Dermabrasion is the removal of the top layers of the skin. It is a type of skin-smoothing surgery.
Read Article Now Book Mark ArticleOutlook (Prognosis)
Rhinophyma can be corrected with surgery. The condition may return.
Possible Complications
Rhinophyma can cause emotional distress. This is because of the way it looks.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider if you have symptoms of rhinophyma and would like to talk about treatment.
References
Dinulos JGH. Acne, rosacea, and related disorders. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 7.
Grande DJ. Rhinophyma. In: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Coulson IH, Murrell DF, eds. Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 218.
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Rosacea - illustration
Rosacea has multiple phases, beginning with flushing of the skin, followed by redness, followed by the development of small blood vessels visible in the skin. The later stage and is exhibited by the red blisters on this person's cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Underlying redness and small blood vessels are also seen.
Rosacea
illustration
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Rosacea - illustration
Rosacea has multiple phases, beginning with flushing of the skin, followed by redness, followed by the development of small blood vessels visible in the skin. The later stage and is exhibited by the red blisters on this person's cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Underlying redness and small blood vessels are also seen.
Rosacea
illustration
Review Date: 11/18/2022
Reviewed By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.