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    Rhinophyma

    Bulbous nose; Nose - bulbous; Phymatous rosacea

    Rhinophyma is a large red-colored (ruddy) nose. The nose has a bulb shape.

    Causes

    Rhinophyma was once thought to be caused by heavy alcohol use. This is not correct. Rhinophyma occurs equally in people who do not use alcohol and in those who drink heavily. The problem is much more common in men than in women.

    The cause of rhinophyma is unknown. It may be a severe form of a skin disease called rosacea. It is an uncommon disorder.

    Symptoms

    Symptoms include changes in the nose, such as:

    • Bulb-like (bulbous) shape
    • Many oil glands
    • Reddish color (possible)
    • Thickening of the skin
    • Waxy, yellow surface

    Exams and Tests

    Most of the time, your health care provider can diagnose rhinophyma without any tests. Sometimes a skin biopsy may be needed.

    Treatment

    The most common treatment is surgery to reshape the nose. Surgery may be done with a laser, scalpel, or rotating brush (dermabrasion). Certain acne medicines may also help treat the condition.

    Outlook (Prognosis)

    Rhinophyma can be corrected with surgery. The condition may return.

    Possible Complications

    Rhinophyma can cause emotional distress. This is because of the way it looks.

    When to Contact a Medical Professional

    Contact your provider if you have symptoms of rhinophyma and would like to talk about treatment.

    Open References

    References

    Dinulos JGH. Acne, rosacea, and related disorders. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 7.

    Grande DJ. Rhinophyma. In: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Coulson IH, Murrell DF, eds. Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 218.

    Raghallaigh SN. Rosacea and related disorders. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 37.

      • Rosacea

        Rosacea - illustration

        Rosacea has multiple phases, beginning with flushing of the skin, followed by redness, followed by the development of small blood vessels visible in the skin. The later stage and is exhibited by the red blisters on this person's cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Underlying redness and small blood vessels are also seen.

        Rosacea

        illustration

        • Rosacea

          Rosacea - illustration

          Rosacea has multiple phases, beginning with flushing of the skin, followed by redness, followed by the development of small blood vessels visible in the skin. The later stage and is exhibited by the red blisters on this person's cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Underlying redness and small blood vessels are also seen.

          Rosacea

          illustration

        Review Date: 10/13/2024

        Reviewed By: Ramin Fathi, MD, FAAD, Director, Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, Phoenix, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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