Rhinophyma Surgery

Rhinophyma Surgery in London

Rhinophyma is a condition that causes the nose to become enlarged and deformed, most commonly seen in men over 50. It is a subtype of rosacea, a chronic skin condition that affects the face. Rhinophyma is caused by the thickening of the skin on the nose, as well as an increase in the number and size of sebaceous glands. This can result in a bulbous, red, and bumpy nose. It is important to note that while rhinophyma is often associated with heavy alcohol consumption, the link is not well established.

Treatment for rhinophyma typically involves reducing the size of the nose through surgical procedures such as excision, skin resurfacing, or laser therapy. The goal of treatment is to improve the patient’s appearance and self-esteem and to improve breathing by opening the nasal airway. In some cases, a combination of surgical and non-surgical treatments may be needed.

What is Rhinophyma?

Rhinophyma is a skin disorder that predominantly impacts the nasal area. It leads to an enlarged, bulbous nose that may appear reddish and bumpy or exhibit a mix of both characteristics. The precise origin of rhinophyma remains unclear, although scientific research suggests that it may emerge due to an undiagnosed and untreated severe form of rosacea, known as phymatous rosacea.

The progression of rhinophyma usually spans several years, during which the condition gradually evolves into a sizable mass, most often located at the nose’s tip. Early indications of rosacea can manifest as patchy redness on the cheeks and nose, intermittent facial flushing, skin sensitivity, or the emergence of small red bumps.

As rhinophyma progresses, it is typically marked by a slow-growing mass that causes the nose to become increasingly bulbous and distorted in shape. Additional symptoms can include a proliferation of oil glands, enlarged pores, reddened skin, and areas where the skin has thickened, become rougher, or developed a waxy appearance.

In the initial stages of rosacea, individuals may experience a variety of symptoms, such as red blotchy skin appearing on their cheeks and nose, sporadic episodes of facial flushing, heightened skin sensitivity, or the development of small red bumps. If left untreated, these early signs can eventually evolve into the more severe form of rhinophyma, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing this dermatological condition.

What Causes Rhinophyma?

The exact cause of rhinophyma is not well understood, but it is believed to be a complication of rosacea, a chronic skin condition that affects the face. Rosacea causes facial inflammation and redness, especially on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. In some people, the condition can progress to rhinophyma, which is characterized by the thickening of the skin on the nose and an increase in the number and size of sebaceous glands.

Some risk factors have been associated with the development of rhinophyma, including:

Age: It is most common in men over 50
Gender: it is more common in men than in women
Family history: people with a family history of rosacea or rhinophyma are more likely to develop the condition
Ethnicity: it’s more common in people of Celtic or Scandinavian descent
Exposure to UV rays and environmental factors like wind, sun, and cold temperatures.

Rhinophyma Reduction Before & After Photos

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Can Rhinophyma Cause Snoring?

While rhinophyma itself is not directly linked to snoring, the condition can cause structural changes in the nose that may contribute to snoring or other breathing difficulties.

In some cases, rhinophyma can cause the nasal passages to become partially or completely blocked, making it more difficult to breathe through the nose. This can lead to snoring or other breathing problems during sleep.

In addition, rhinophyma can cause the nasal tissue to become inflamed, contributing to snoring or other breathing difficulties. It is important to note, however, that not all individuals with rhinophyma will experience snoring or other breathing problems.

Centre for Surgery offers highly effective laser snoring treatment, also known as NightLase, to help alleviate symptoms of snoring caused by rhinophyma.

Laser snoring treatment is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to tighten the tissues in the back of the throat, reducing the vibration that causes snoring.

Benefits of Rhinophyma Treatment

The benefits of rhinophyma treatment are numerous and can significantly improve an individual’s quality of life. Some of the key advantages of seeking appropriate treatment for this dermatological condition include:

Improved appearance

One of the primary benefits of rhinophyma treatment is the enhancement of the patient’s appearance. As the condition can lead to a disfigured and bulbous nose, treatment can help reduce the size and redness of the affected area, leading to a more natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Enhanced self-confidence

Rhinophyma, due to its visible nature, can significantly impact an individual’s self-esteem. By addressing the symptoms and improving the nose’s appearance, patients can experience a boost in self-confidence and a renewed sense of self-worth.

Better skin health

Treatment of rhinophyma can contribute to overall skin health by reducing inflammation, controlling excess oil production, and minimising enlarged pores. These improvements can lead to a healthier complexion and reduce the risk of further skin complications.

Improved respiratory function

In severe cases, rhinophyma can obstruct the nasal passages, leading to breathing difficulties. Treatment can help alleviate this issue by reducing the size of the nasal mass, allowing for improved airflow and better respiratory function.

Prevention of complications

Timely and appropriate treatment of rhinophyma can help prevent the progression of the condition and the development of complications, such as infections and further disfigurement of the nasal area.

Psychological well-being

Addressing the physical symptoms of rhinophyma can have a positive impact on an individual’s mental health. Relief from social anxiety and improvement in self-confidence can lead to enhanced psychological well-being and an overall better quality of life.

Customised treatment plans

Rhinophyma treatments can be tailored to suit each patient’s specific needs and preferences. This personalized approach ensures that individuals receive the most effective and appropriate care for their condition.

Am I suitable for rhinophyma surgery?

Whether or not you are suitable for rhinophyma surgery depends on several factors, including the severity of your condition, your overall health, and your personal goals for the surgery. A consultation with a plastic surgeon specialising in rhinophyma treatment will help determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.

During the consultation, the surgeon will assess the size and shape of your nose, the thickness of the skin, and the presence of any other medical conditions that may affect the outcome of the surgery. They will also discuss your goals for the surgery and explain the different surgical options available, including the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of each.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that rhinophyma surgery may not completely eliminate the redness, bumpiness, and irregular shape of the nose. However, it will improve its appearance and can also improve breathing by opening the nasal airway.

Surgery is not the only option for rhinophyma treatment; other non-surgical options, such as topical or oral medications or laser therapy, may be used alone or in combination with surgery.

Rhinophyma Removal Surgical Techniques

Several surgical techniques can be used to treat rhinophyma, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of technique will depend on the extent of the condition, the patient’s goals for the surgery, and the surgeon’s experience and expertise.

Some of the most common surgical techniques for rhinophyma include:

Surgical Excision

This technique involves removing the excess tissue from the nose using a scalpel or a surgical laser. This can be done through an open or closed approach, depending on the extent of the condition. This method is still the most effective technique but can leave a scar and may require a skin graft.

Dermaplaning

This technique involves using a surgical blade to shave off the excess tissue on the nose. This technique can be performed under local anaesthesia and is considered less invasive than other surgical methods.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser resurfacing

This technique uses a laser to remove the top layers of the skin on the nose, leaving behind a smoother and more even surface. It can also improve the skin’s texture and reduce the redness associated with rhinophyma.

Cryosurgery

This technique uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the excess tissue on the nose.

Subcision

This technique involves using a needle to separate the fibrous bands, pulling down the skin, and creating a bumpy texture.

Recovery after Rhinophyma Removal

Recovery after rhinophyma surgery varies depending on the surgical technique used, but generally, it can take several weeks for the swelling and bruising to subside and for the final results to become visible.

After the surgery, your surgeon will place a dressing or splint on your nose to help shape and protect the area during the healing process. They will also provide you with instructions for caring for the surgical site, including how to clean and protect the area and when to return for follow-up appointments.

You should expect some swelling and bruising around the nose, which can last for several weeks. Your surgeon may recommend medications to help manage pain and discomfort, and cold compresses can be used to help reduce swelling. The sutures will be removed after a week or two, and you will be able to resume normal activities after a week or two, but it is important to avoid strenuous activities or exposure to sunlight during the healing period.

Follow the postoperative instructions your surgeon provided and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments. During the healing process, try to be patient and avoid comparing your recovery to others, as every person’s healing process is different.

The final results of the surgery may not be visible for several months, and the nose may not be completely symmetrical. Still, the surgery will improve its appearance and can also improve breathing by opening the nasal airway.

Can I get Rhinophyma Treatment on the NHS?

The availability of rhinophyma surgery in the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK can vary depending on the specific NHS trust or region. Before considering surgery, non-surgical options like topical or oral medications or laser therapy are usually tried first.

To be considered for rhinophyma surgery on the NHS, a GP or a specialist must refer you and then be assessed by a specialist surgeon. They will evaluate your condition, and if they determine that surgery is the best option, they will refer you to a plastic surgeon who can perform the procedure.

The availability of the surgery on the NHS may also depend on the funding and resources available in your area. Some NHS trusts may not offer surgery for rhinophyma or may have a long waiting list for the procedure. However, some patients may be able to get a referral for surgery on the NHS if they have a severe or debilitating case of rhinophyma or if other treatment options have failed.