Rhinophyma
Rhinophyma is a skin condition that causes thickening of the skin on the nose, leading to an enlarged, bulbous, and often uneven appearance. It is commonly associated with long-standing rosacea and occurs more frequently in men. Over time, excess sebaceous (oil) gland growth and connective tissue overgrowth can distort the natural shape of the nose.
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COâ‚‚ laser treatment is one of the most effective cosmetic treatments for rhinophyma. It allows precise reshaping of the nose by removing excess tissue layer by layer, restoring a more natural contour while preserving underlying structures.
At a Glance
Rhinophyma
Time
90-120 minutes
Results
Results can be seen immediately but there is significant swelling at first and then scabbing which does last 1-2 weeks
Risks
There is a risk of infection, bleeding, scarring and longer term recurrence.
Downtime
7-14 days
Before
After
How COâ‚‚ laser works for rhinophyma
The COâ‚‚ laser emits a focused beam of light that is absorbed by water within the skin cells. This allows controlled vaporisation of thickened tissue while sealing small blood vessels at the same time.
The treatment effectively debulks the enlarged areas and smooths irregular surfaces with excellent precision.
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Because the laser works gradually and accurately, the practitioner can sculpt the nose to achieve a more refined, natural-looking result.
• Treatment is usually performed under local anaesthetic, and in some cases with mild sedation depending on the severity. The procedure may take 30–90 minutes depending on the extent of tissue overgrowth.
• The laser is used to carefully remove the thickened tissue in layers, sculpting the nose to restore a more proportionate appearance. The goal is not to change the nose dramatically, but to return it to a natural, balanced shape.
The essentials
Before treatment
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Before undergoing COâ‚‚ laser treatment for rhinophyma:
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A full clinical assessment is required
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The diagnosis must be confirmed
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Any active rosacea flare-ups should be controlled
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Patients should avoid sun exposure prior to treatment
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Certain medications may need to be paused if advised
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Clear pre- and post-treatment instructions will be provided to optimise healing and results.
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After treatment and recovery
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Immediately after treatment, the nose will appear raw and red, similar to a superficial burn. A protective dressing or ointment will be applied.
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Typical healing timeline:
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Days 1–3: Swelling and redness are most noticeable
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Days 4–10: New skin begins to form as the surface heals
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2–4 weeks: Pinkness gradually reduces
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Several months: Continued improvement in skin texture and colour
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Most patients can return to non-strenuous activities within 1–2 weeks. Strict sun protection is essential during healing to minimise pigmentation changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Luxury Treatments
Each treatment is individually designed around you, informed by an in-depth consultation and meticulous skin analysis.
Consultant Care
Consultant Dermatologist and Laser Specialist–led care, delivered by Dr Singh and team using advanced COâ‚‚ laser technology.
National Expertise
We are dedicated to achieving outstanding clinical results, with national expertise on the latest advanced treatment protocols.