Rhinophyma in Miami

Many people experience a skin disorder that causes their nose to become bulbous and enlarged. It is due to rhinophyma—or a condition that makes the nose looks swollen, red, and distorted. This condition is a subtype of rosacea—an inflammatory skin disease where people with rhinophyma may also experience symptoms of other rosacea subtypes.

Less than 20 million Americans are affected by rosacea according to the National Rosacea Society (NRS). If you have a rhinophyma and curious about it, Dr. Carlos Spera—a renowned Plastic Surgeon in Miami gives you information about it, including rhinophyma treatment, complications, and recovery following a plastic surgery procedure through this content.

What is Rhinophyma?

In a nutshell, rhinophyma is a skin disorder that is characterized by a bumpy, large, and red nose. It occurs as part of the phymatous rosacea, where the exact cause is still unknown. However, it is considered a subtype of severe rosacea. This is significantly more common in men between the ages of 50 to 70 years old.

When viewing from a microlens, rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes irregular redness or flushing in your face, particularly in your cheeks or your nasal area. Pustules—those small and red bumps that are filled with pus—may significantly appear on your face as part of this condition.

Four types were identified and can range from mild to severe. It is not unusual for individuals to have more than one rosacea subtype.

On the other hand, rhinophyma is classified as part of the subtype 3 rosacea. Gradually, it forms over several years and is believed to be the result of poorly treated or untreated rosacea. The overall result involves a large mass on the lower half of your nose.

What is the cause of Rhinophyma?

As of this writing, there is no known cause of rhinophyma. However, it was thought to be due to alcohol use in the past, but research invitations did not prove that connection.

There is no proven correlation between rhinophyma and alcohol. However, alcohol and caffeine can both temporarily dilate your blood vessels, and make the outcome of plastic surgery worse. As a result, many people need to stop drinking alcohol when they possess rhinophyma, despite the lack of evidence suggesting that it is necessary to do so.

Some other risk factors affecting rhinophyma and rosacea include having fair skin, being male and middle-aged, and having a family history of rosacea.

How quickly does Rhinophyma progress?

A significant change in the color and shape of your nose is the primary symptom of rhinophyma. The tip of your nose may turn to a deep red over time and can also grow in odd directions and appear bulbous.

Moreover, many people experience other symptoms from rhinophyma, including lumps on the nose due to the growth of extra connective tissue, red or purplish discoloration, enlarged pores, scarring or pitting, dry or oily skin, and thickened skin.

In addition, rhinophyma tends to occur in people with severe rosacea. Hence, many people experience other rosacea symptoms, including sensitive skin, facial flushing, red patches, bumps that look like pimples, and visible blood vessels in your affected skin.

Can Rhinophyma be stopped?

Even after plastic surgery procedures like the removal of nodules caused by rhinophyma, it is still possible for them to return. It is for this reason that it is vital for people who suffer from the condition to take appropriate measures to prevent worsening of the condition.

Rhinophyma can be stopped through various means. If you have rhinophyma, it is recommended to protect your skin from the UV rays by using sunblock. Make sure that the sun protection factor of the sunblock is at least 30. Lifestyle changes may also be recommended to manage the symptoms of rhinophyma. This includes, among others, getting rid of smoking, alcoholic drinks, spicy foods, caffeinated drinks, rubbing the face, and sunlight exposure.

By avoiding these factors can help you minimize the appearance of redness and blood vessels in some people with rhinophyma in Miami. Medications that are used to treat rosacea may also help maintain control over the condition.

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Are there any complications from Rhinophyma?

Each plastic surgery procedure has also a corresponding risk; hence, Dr. Spera will discuss all the possible complications with you before helping them to decide on a plastic surgery procedure. They may also recommend a combination of two or more techniques. The choice of rhinophyma treatment may also vary according to the results you want to achieve, which may include:

Reshaping a disfigured nose;
Removing growth or an excess layer of your skin;
Reducing the appearance of a tiny and superficial blood vessel in the area, and enhance the overall outlook of your skin.

What is Rhinophyma treatment in Miami like?

Rhinophyma begins following a rosacea diagnosis. When rosacea is in its early stage, people often confuse it with acne, eczema, or other conditions. It is easier to diagnose rosacea as the condition progresses.

Moreover, the characteristic appearance of rhinophyma makes it easy to diagnose solely a visual examination. However, Dr. Spera may still run tests in some cases, especially when symptoms do not respond to treatment. You may also take a biopsy to check for any malignancy in your cell or worrisome changes.

There are various treatments for rhinophyma depending on the progression of the condition and can include a combination of different rhinophyma treatment options. Plastic surgeons like Dr. Spera and other doctors typically treat rosacea with the use of antibiotics and retinoids, but rhinophyma may not respond to the same treatments as other subtypes of rosacea.

One rhinoplasty treatment is through medications. Oral isotretinoin is the first-line treatment for this condition. It is more likely to be essential if the rhinophyma is at an early stage or if the condition is not severe.

The primary aim of the medication is to significantly treat the underlying rosacea. Topical or oral antibiotics may significantly reduce inflammation or redness in the area. The most common antibiotics for treating rosacea include tetracycline, metronidazole, and erythromycin. Azelaic acid and other topical medications may significantly help minimize inflammation and redness. In some cases, Dr. Spera will recommend moisturizers or other medications that may help prevent the skin from drying out or become oily.

The next rhinophyma treatment in Miami is through plastic surgery. Plastic surgery is the ideal option for the long-term treatment of rhinophyma. It is crucial to perform plastic surgery as early as possible to prevent permanent disfigurement as the tissues and blood vessels in the area keep growing.

There are various plastic surgery procedure options to treat rhinophyma including:

Dermabrasion that will remove excess layers of your skin. This technique will involve using a wire brush or a burr which rotates rapidly and removes the upper layer of your skin. It can cause bleeding and there is a risk of cutting too deep, which can cause scarring and permanent color changes to your skin.
Electrosurgery, where it uses a device that delivers high-frequency electrical currents that heat up and helps minimize the excess tissue.
Cryosurgery helps freeze and destroy unwanted or abnormal tissues
Scalpel excision involves using either a scalpel or a razor blade in a controlled manner to help eliminate excess tissue. Sharp excision where the plastic surgeon will cut away the growth of excess tissue with the use of a scalpel.
A CO2 laser is the preferred and most popular rhinophyma treatment and in treating thickened skin. Through this plastic surgery procedure, it shaves down the bumps induced by thickening skin. This procedure can cause the least amount of bleeding. However, there is a risk of pigment changes and scarring by sing the traditional fully ablative CO2 laser.

How long is recovery after Rhinophyma treatment in Miami?

The recovery period on rhinophyma surgery usually takes three months or longer and some people require them to undergo more than one treatment. On the initial day following the rhinophyma treatment, Dr. Spera will require you to take medications that he prescribes you. You will continue taking your medications for two weeks after the plastic surgery procedures.

On the first eight to ten days following the plastic surgery procedures, you need to prepare for 10-day home recovery. For the first two days, you will experience oozing and crusting. All treatment areas must be kept moist with the applied dressing after surgery. It is not recommended for you to put any topical agents without the approval of the plastic surgeon.

After ten days following the plastic surgery procedure, the treated area may feel quite dry and tight. You are required to use a moisturizer. Vaseline, Aquaphor, or mupirocin are not necessary during this recovery period. Itching is common and responds to prescription ointments available upon your request. The redness will gradually fade as days go by, ideally after a period of weeks to months.

In a nutshell, optimal improvement following your rhinophyma treatment may take three months or more.

Why choose us?

Rhinophyma treatments are now accessible when you are currently suffering from a skin disorder that is characterized by a large, bumpy, or bulbous nose. If you wanted to undergo a rhinophyma plastic surgery procedure, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Carlos Spera—a renowned Plastic Surgeon in Miami through the contact information provided below. We guarantee that we will cater the best possible alternatives to you to treat your rhinophyma through plastic surgery, which further enhances your facial features. We are looking forward to seeing you soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rhinophyma, and how does it affect individuals?

Rhinophyma is a skin condition characterized by a large, bulbous, and reddened nose, often accompanied by prominent pores and a thickened skin texture. It’s a severe form of rosacea, primarily affecting the nose. Beyond the physical changes, rhinophyma can significantly impact an individual’s self-confidence and self-esteem due to its prominent appearance.

How do I determine if I have Rhinophyma and need treatment?

If you notice a progressive thickening of the skin on your nose, an uneven surface, prominent pores, or a bulbous shape, you might be experiencing rhinophyma. A consultation with Dr. Carlos Spera in Miami will provide a detailed assessment and determine the best course of action for treatment.

What are the treatment options for Rhinophyma at Dr. Carlos Spera's clinic?

Dr. Carlos Spera offers advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments to address rhinophyma. Depending on the severity and individual needs, treatments may include surgical reshaping, laser therapy, or dermabrasion to reduce the thickness of the skin and restore a more natural nose appearance.

What can I expect during the recovery period after Rhinophyma treatment?

Recovery varies based on the chosen treatment method. Surgical interventions might require a few weeks of healing, with some swelling and redness. Non-surgical treatments like laser therapy may have a shorter recovery time. Dr. Spera will provide comprehensive post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Are the results of Rhinophyma treatment permanent?

While the treatments effectively address the current condition of rhinophyma, it’s essential to understand that rosacea, the underlying cause, is a chronic condition. Regular follow-ups and potential maintenance treatments, combined with specific skincare routines, can help manage the condition and prevent recurrence.

How does Dr. Carlos Spera ensure a natural appearance post-treatment?

With over 30 years of expertise in aesthetic surgeries, Dr. Carlos Spera emphasizes achieving natural-looking results. His meticulous techniques ensure that post-treatment, the nose retains its natural shape and appearance, free from the pronounced symptoms of rhinophyma.

Why choose Dr. Carlos Spera for Rhinophyma treatment in Miami?

Dr. Carlos Spera is a trusted name in Miami, renowned for his dedication to achieving optimal results tailored to individual needs. His comprehensive approach to treating rhinophyma ensures that patients not only receive top-tier medical care but also regain their confidence and self-esteem.

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Dr. Carlos Spera is a Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

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