Rhinophyma

The exact cause is not fully understood, but rhinophyma is most commonly associated with longstanding rosacea. Contributing factors may include enlarged sebaceous glands, chronic inflammation, increased fibrous tissue, changes in the skin's blood vessels and genetic susceptibility. It usually develops gradually over many years.

No. This is a common misconception. Alcohol does not cause rhinophyma. Although alcohol may trigger rosacea flare-ups in some people, it is not responsible for the development of rhinophyma.

Surgery may be appropriate if rhinophyma has caused thickened or irregular skin, enlargement of the nose, prominent oil glands, changes to the shape of the nose, difficulty breathing through narrowed nostrils or reduced confidence due to its appearance. During your consultation, Mr Sawyer will assess your condition and discuss whether surgery is the most suitable treatment.

Early rosacea may respond to topical treatments, oral antibiotics, isotretinoin or laser therapy. However, once rhinophyma has developed, these treatments cannot remove the excess tissue or restore the normal contour of the nose. Surgery remains the most effective treatment for established rhinophyma.

Visible scarring is usually minimal. Unlike many surgical procedures, rhinophyma surgery preserves the sebaceous glands, allowing new skin to regenerate naturally rather than relying on long surgical incisions. This helps achieve a smoother and more natural-looking result.

Surgery provides long-lasting improvement for most patients. However, because the underlying rosacea remains, gradual recurrence may occur over many years. If this happens, further treatment can usually be carried out successfully. Ongoing rosacea management and daily sun protection can help reduce the likelihood of recurrence.