Management of rhinophyma with carbon dioxide laser: Lahey Clinic experience

The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser as a surgical tool for the difficult cosmetic problem of rhinophyma permits unprecedented refinement in treatment. Previously described conventional techniques have included the cold knife and the dermabrader. With these methods, hemostasis must be obtained with electrocautery, which if used extensively makes fine sculpting difficult. Seven patients with rhinophyma were treated with the CO2 laser at the Lahey Clinic from 1982 to 1987. We used a laser handpiece with a variable spot size. With this technique, we found the laser to be an excellent cutting tool while simultaneously providing superior hemostasis. In the followup period of up to 4.5 years, the cosmetic results have been excellent. Thus, the CO2 laser has become our treatment of choice for the management of patients with rhinophyma.