Comparison of CO2 laser and electrosurgery in the treatment of rhinophyma

A number of surgical modalities, including the CO2 laser, have been advocated for the treatment of rhinophyma. The CO2 laser has been extensively promoted for the management of many skin lesions, including warts, keloids, and various nail problems. In many instances it has been suggested that the CO2 laser holds a distinct advantage over other surgical modalities. Three patients with rhinophyma are presented. Results are compared after treating one half of the nose with biterminal electrocutting current and the other half with the beam of the CO2 laser.