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.