Rhinophyma treated by argon laser.

Results are reported of rhinophyma treated by argon laser. The therapy is assumed to be based on two features: first, selective coagulation of the blood capillaries which cause redness of the nose and which feed the hypertrophic regions; second, direct coagulation shrinkage of the hypertrophic connective tissue. The therapy is simple, causes no noticeable discomfort, requires no (local) anaesthesia or admission, and can be performed more than once. Thirteen patients were treated, eleven men and two women. Systemic treatment could be stopped in all but one case (seven patients). Two out of ten patients still use resorcinol but at a reduced frequency. The general result is a smooth and more natural appearance of the nose without redness. Pustulosis has become an exception.