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Rhinophyma Treatment
Treatment for rhinophyma in London typically involves reducing the size and restoring the natural shape of the nose through a surgical approach called Shave & Cauterisation.
At The Braham Institute, Dr. Braham employs a compassionate and artistic sculpting technique to address Rhinophyma, restoring your nose to its original natural form. He is dedicated to achieving exceptional surgical results with minimal scarring, helping to rebuild your confidence, which makes him the perfect option for anyone contemplating this procedure at a cutting-edge facility.
What is Rhinophyma Treatment?
Rhinophyma is a progressive skin disorder linked to severe rosacea that causes the nose to become enlarged, red, and bumpy due to thickened skin and overactive sebaceous glands. Most common in men over 50, the condition has no confirmed cause but is considered a late-stage complication of unmanaged rosacea. Contrary to popular belief, there is no scientific evidence directly linking it to alcohol use. Symptoms include a bulbous, oily nose with thickened skin, prominent pores, redness, and in advanced cases, breathing obstruction due to tissue overgrowth.
Risk factors include male gender, age over 50, history of rosacea, Northern European ancestry, and environmental triggers like sun or alcohol. In severe cases, nasal airflow can be impaired, causing breathing issues or snoring. At The Braham Institute, rhinophyma is treated surgically through precise excision of excess tissue to restore natural contours and improve both appearance and nasal function. Benefits include a more refined nose shape, improved breathing, reduced redness, healthier skin, and enhanced confidence. Surgery is suitable for patients in good health with moderate to severe tissue growth who are seeking both cosmetic and functional improvements. During a consultation, Dr Braham will assess the severity, explore treatment options, and design a plan tailored to your needs. If you’re struggling with rhinophyma, the team at The Braham Institute in London offers expert, compassionate care to help restore your appearance and quality of life.
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Rhinophyma Treatment Surgery Technique
At The Braham Institute, surgical shave excision and cauterisation is the gold-standard treatment for moderate to severe rhinophyma. This effective procedure involves the precise removal of thickened skin and overgrown sebaceous tissue to restore a more natural nasal contour, significantly enhancing both appearance and, in some cases, nasal function.
Dr Braham carefully sculpts the affected area whilst the patient is on local anaesthetic by removing the bulbous nose tissue. The area is then cauterised and covered with a dressing. The nose may remain pink for few months. The initial wound will be moist during the first week, and then the scab will fall off, revealing a smoother appearance.
Key benefits of surgical shave excision include immediate improvement in nasal shape, a tailored approach based on your anatomy, potential relief from breathing obstruction, long-lasting results when underlying rosacea is managed, and a boost in self-confidence through aesthetic restoration.
What are the Risks?
95% of Dr. Braham’s cases proceed without complications; however, complications may occur and can include:
- Scarring
- Infection
- Bleeding or Haematoma Formation
- Delayed Healing
- Change in Skin Pigmentation
- Skin Texture Irregularities
- Recurrence of Rhinophyma
- Numbness or Altered Sensation
- Deformity
Recovery after Rhinophyma Treatment
Immediate Care After Surgery: A protective dressing or splint may be placed on your nose to maintain its new shape. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions, including how to clean the area, apply ointments if prescribed, and when to return for follow-up appointments.
Normal Post-Op Symptoms: Expect swelling and bruising around the nose and mid-face for 1–2 weeks. Mild discomfort or tightness is common and can be managed with over-the-counter or prescribed medication. Non-dissolvable sutures are typically removed within 7–14 days.
At-Home Healing Tips: Sleep with your head elevated for a few nights and avoid any pressure on the nose—this includes wearing tight glasses or sunglasses until your surgeon advises otherwise.
Activities to Avoid: Refrain from strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and sun exposure for at least two weeks. Always wear high-SPF sunscreen on the treated area and avoid smoking, which can slow healing and increase the risk of complications.
Follow-Up Care: You’ll attend scheduled appointments to track your healing. Our team is available to answer questions or address any concerns throughout your recovery.
Long-Term Results: Full recovery can take several months as swelling fully resolves and skin texture improves. While perfect symmetry isn’t guaranteed, the nose will appear significantly more refined, and nasal airflow may also improve.
Individual Recovery Varies: Healing times differ for everyone. It’s important to follow your tailored aftercare plan, avoid comparing your progress to others, and trust the process with support from The Braham Institute team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get rhinophyma treatment on the NHS?
Rhinophyma treatment is not currently funded by the NHS, and choosing a trusted and experienced private clinic is the best option in achieving your desired results.
What are the symptoms of rhinophyma?
Common symptoms include:
-Thickened, irregular skin on the nose
-Visible pores
-Redness or flushing
-Bulbous nasal tip
-Bumpy texture
Is rhinophyma caused by alcohol?
Although historically linked to excessive alcohol consumption, modern research shows that alcohol is not a direct cause of rhinophyma. However, alcohol may worsen rosacea symptoms in some individuals.
Is rhinophyma surgery painful?
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia with or without sedation, meaning you won’t feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with pain relief medication.
Are the results permanent?
Surgical treatment offers long-lasting results, but since rhinophyma is a progressive condition, recurrence is possible—especially if underlying rosacea remains unmanaged.
Can rhinophyma affect breathing?
In severe cases, the excess tissue can obstruct nasal airways and cause breathing issues. Surgery can help open the nasal passages and restore normal airflow.
