Erbium-doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Er:YAG) Laser Resurfacing Restores Normal Function and Cosmesis in Patients with Severe Rhinophyma.

Background: Rhinophyma is a dermatologic condition that can lead to severe disfiguration and psychological distress. Many therapies, both medical and surgical, have been reported, but few with acceptable and reproducible cosmesis. Objective: We assessed the efficacy of erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Er:YAG) laser resurfacing as a treatment modality for rhinophyma of all degrees. Design, Setting, and Participants: Eleven Caucasian male patients were classified into categories of mild, moderate, or severe rhinophyma and were treated at the University of Rochester Medical Center with a dual mode Er:YAG fully ablative laser. Measurements: Severity was graded as mild, moderate, or severe, based on the degree of distortion of normal anatomy. Results: The Er:YAG laser allowed for increased ablative precision, a decreased risk of complications, shorter downtime, and improved outcomes compared to currently available treatments. Conclusion: Our results suggest Er:YAG laser resurfacing is an effective treatment modality, with low risk and excellent, reproducible cosmetic outcomes, for patients with rhinophyma of any severity.