Surgery may help for moderate to severe cases of rosacea to treat an enlarged nose (rhinophyma); small, red lines (telangiectasia); or lingering redness.

Some types of skin problems respond better to surgery than others. People with lighter skin who limit their time in the sun and use sunscreen after the procedure tend to have better results than people with sun-darkened skin and people who continue to spend lots of time in the sun.

Surgery Choices

Surgery options include:

• Laser resurfacing. Laser surgery removes layers of skin. This may help with an enlarged nose (rhinophyma); small, red lines; or lingering redness.
• Dermabrasion. This procedure may smooth the rough skin and bumps on the nose caused by rhinophyma.
• Cosmetic surgery. Reconstructive surgery and plastic surgery may reshape or remove bumps from a nose damaged by rhinophyma.

What To Think About

You may not be a good candidate for surgery if you are using isotretinoin or have used it within the last 6 to 12 months, because it may increase the risk of scarring after the procedure.