Rhinophyma in Brisbane
Specialist Dermatologist Assessment and Management
Rhinophyma is an uncommon but well-recognised skin condition that causes progressive thickening and enlargement of the skin of the nose. It is most often seen in men and typically develops slowly over time.
At Your Dermatologist, rhinophyma is managed with a careful diagnostic and treatment-planning approach, focused on medical accuracy, functional considerations, and realistic outcomes.
What is rhinophyma?
Rhinophyma is a form of phymatous rosacea, characterised by thickened skin, enlarged pores and irregular surface texture affecting the nose. It represents a later stage of rosacea in some individuals, although not everyone with rosacea develops rhinophyma.
Rhinophyma is not caused by alcohol use, despite common misconceptions.
Common features of rhinophyma
Rhinophyma may present with:
Thickened, bulbous nasal skin
Irregular surface texture
Enlarged pores and oiliness
Redness or background rosacea
Gradual change in nasal shape over time
In more advanced cases, rhinophyma may interfere with nasal airflow or cause significant cosmetic and psychological distress.
Why specialist assessment matters
Rhinophyma requires specialist assessment because:
It can be confused with other nasal skin conditions or tumours
Severity and progression vary significantly
Management options differ depending on stage and skin characteristics
Treatment decisions must balance benefit, risk and healing outcomes
Early recognition allows for clearer discussion of management options and expectations.
Management approach for rhinophyma
Management is individualised and depends on severity, symptoms and patient preference.
Medical management
In earlier or milder cases, treatment may focus on:
Control of underlying rosacea
Reduction of inflammation and background redness
Monitoring for progression
Medical treatment alone does not reverse established tissue overgrowth but may help limit progression.
Procedural management
In more advanced cases, procedural treatment may be considered to:
Reduce excess tissue
Improve nasal contour and surface texture
Address functional concerns where present
Suitability for procedural treatment is determined following specialist assessment, with discussion of expected improvement, limitations, healing time and risks.
What results can be expected?
Treatment for rhinophyma aims to improve nasal shape, skin texture and function, not to achieve complete restoration of pre-existing appearance.
Improvement is:
Variable between individuals
Dependent on disease severity and treatment method
Achieved gradually, with healing over time
Ongoing rosacea management is usually required after treatment to reduce the risk of recurrence.
What to expect at your consultation
Your consultation will include:
Detailed history of rosacea and nasal skin changes
Examination of the nose and surrounding skin
Discussion of diagnosis and severity
Review of management options and timing
Clear explanation of expected outcomes and follow-up
Where appropriate, biopsy or further investigation may be discussed.
Rhinophyma dermatologist in Brisbane
If you have noticed progressive thickening, redness or change in the shape of your nose, specialist dermatology assessment can help clarify the diagnosis and discuss appropriate management options.
At Your Dermatologist, care for rhinophyma is evidence-based, measured and focused on functional and long-term skin health without stigma or unrealistic promises.