CO₂ laser resurfacing for rhinophyma
Rhinophyma (thickened/enlarged nose)
CO2 Resurfacing Laser offers an effective, non-surgical treatment for rhinophyma, helping to reshape the nose and improve its texture by removing excess tissue.
What Is CO₂ Resurfacing Laser for Rhinophyma?
CO2 Resurfacing Laser is used to treat rhinophyma, a condition characterised by a thickened, bulbous appearance of the nose. The laser removes excess tissue and reshapes the nose, improving its appearance and texture.
How It Works
CO2 Resurfacing Laser uses precise technology to target and remove thickened tissue on the nose, ensuring effective treatment with minimal discomfort.
CO₂ laser treatment is the gold standard for reshaping and restoring the natural appearance of the nose. Unlike older surgical methods, laser therapy offers:
✅ Precision tissue removal without affecting surrounding skin
✅ Minimal bleeding and scarring
✅ Improved nasal contour and function
✅ Excellent cosmetic outcomes in a single session
✅ Faster healing and reduced downtime
Before & After Images: Real Patient results at HCDL
What are the treatment options for Rhinophyma?
Management will depend on the severity of rhinophyma present. When moderate-to-severe disease is present combination therapy will have the best clinical outcome.
- Laser Management – Laser therapy (ablative or vascular lasers) are the mainstay of treatment for moderate- to-severe disease. Lasers are used to shrink/remove enlarged blood vessels and oil glands, and can help reduce the size of the nose and re-shape if distorted. Lasers will also improve the skin texture, reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and help restore the original shape of the nose.
- Medical Management – Oral Vitamin A medications are used for medical management and work by slowly shrinking the size and function of the overactive oil glands.
This is a Medicare rebateable treatment for eligible patients, when treated by a Dermatologist.
What to Expect
1. Specialist Consultation
Your journey begins with a consultation with one of our qualified dermatologists to confirm your diagnosis and assess severity.
2. In-Clinic Treatment
CO₂ laser treatment is performed in our medical clinic under local anaesthetic for your comfort. The laser gently vaporises excess tissue and reshapes the nasal area with high precision.
3. Recovery
Downtime typically ranges from 7 to 10 days. Expect redness, swelling, and minor crusting during the healing process. Clear aftercare instructions will be provided.
4. Follow-Up
We review your healing and monitor results. Most patients require only one treatment, with long-term improvement
WHy choose our dermatology team?
✔️ Performed by qualified dermatologists experienced in advanced laser procedures
✔️ Medical-grade lasers and hospital-standard safety protocols
✔️ Tailored treatment plans based on your skin, history, and goals
✔️ Medicare rebates may apply for eligible patients
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing work?
How is CO2 laser ablation performed for rhinophyma??
CO2 laser ablation is performed as a day procedure with local anaesthetic over several steps and takes approximately 45 minutes in total. You are able to drive after the procedure.
- Injected anaesthetic is used to numb the nose 15 mins prior
- Resurfacing laser is used to heat and remove the abnormal oil glands, lumpy tissue and re-shape the nose. Heat from ablative laser also coagulates the enlarged visible blood vessels leading to substantially reduced appearance of these vessels
- Infrared LED light therapy performed post laser to enhance recovery and outcomes
- Follow-up with HCDL nurse on approximately day 2 to monitor healing and recovery and further LED light therapy
Recovery takes around 5-10 days depending on the severity of rhinophyma and intensity of treatment