Rhinophyma: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its epidemiology, associations, and treatment outcomes.

BACKGROUND

A progressive dermatologic disease often considered the advanced stage of rosacea, rhinophyma is characterized by skin thickening, sebaceous gland hyperplasia, and a bulbous nose. Mostly affecting older men, it is associated with significant cosmetic and functional problems. The current study aimed to assess the epidemiology, associations, and outcomes of management of rhinophyma. METHODOLOGY: This is a systematic review conducted based on 149 case reports, case series, and observational studies published until 2025. Patients’ demographic factors, rhinophyma severity, associated risk factors, treatment approaches, and clinical outcomes were collected. Meta-analysis was conducted to assess the satisfaction and outcomes of the treatment.

RESULTS

This systematic review was conducted among 2720 patients, where males presented 58.9% of the patients with a mean age of 62.9 years. Severe rhinophyma was presented in 61% of the patients, where rosacea was found in 55.8% of them. Older age and male gender were the main risk factors. The most commonly used management was surgical procedures, including the use of scalpel excision (49.0%) and CO2 laser (37.4%). Meta-analysis reported that 88% of the patients showed good satisfaction, and 94% of them reported improvement in clinical and cosmetic outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Using surgical and laser-based treatments successfully cures rhinophyma and results in notable cosmetic and clinical benefits. Variability in therapeutic methods and negative effects, however, points to the need for established treatment plans.