Rhinophyma is a skin condition associated with rosacea that primarily affects the skin on the nose and cheeks. This type of skin infection can cause a thickening of the nasal skin with redness, bumps and sores. Not only is rhinophyma uncomfortable, but it can also drastically change the nose appearance. At Vantage Plastic Surgery, we offer advanced options in rhinophyma treatment at our clinics in UES Manhattan and Brooklyn.
What Causes Rhinophyma?
While individuals with rosacea are more likely to have rhinophyma, this skin condition is much rarer than rosacea. The exact cause of rhinophyma is not known, but there are risk factors that are associated with the condition. Males with rosacea are more likely to have rhinophyma, and it is more prominent among people 50 years of age and above. Those with fair skin in certain ethnic groups like English, Scottish and Scandinavia are more susceptible. The link between alcohol use and rhinophyma has been disproven – alcohol use is not a factor in the cause of rhinophyma.
Rhinophyma starts with symptoms of redness on the skin of the nose and cheeks, similar to traditional rosacea. The nose can appear swollen with visible pores and oil glands. The skin may appear waxy and yellowish, becoming thicker over time. Rhinophyma outbreaks come in cycles, tending to worsen over time.
Rhinophyma Treating and Nose Reshaping
If left untreated, rhinophyma can distort the shape of the nose and create a bumpy, bulbous appearance. Early rhinophyma treatment to control the outbreaks can reduce thickening of the skin, but there is not a cure for this condition. Many people with rhinophyma will require surgery to remove thickened skin and reshape the nose for cosmetic purposes.
Dr. Aleksandr Shteynberg is a double board certified plastic surgeon that offers rhinophyma treatment and surgery at Vantage Plastic Surgery. Plastic surgery can be used to remove thickened skin, minimize oversized blood vessels and reshape the nose. There are also non-surgical treatments like laser therapy that can be beneficial.
If you have rhinophyma and want to explore treatment or nose reshaping options, contact us at Vantage Plastic Surgery. We can schedule a consultation with Dr. Shteynberg at our clinic in Brooklyn or Manhattan.
