ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Rhinophyma results in nasal deformity, which may lead to significant distress, embarrassment, social isolation, and low self-esteem. Fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatment is a simple, noninvasive, outpatient procedure with a low complication rate that has proved useful in rhinophyma treatment. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of fractional ablative CO2 laser treatment on self-esteem in patients with rhinophyma. METHODS: Twelve patients with rhinophyma, between 50 and 80 years of age, received 4 monthly treatment sessions with a fractional ablative CO2 laser. The laser parameters were chosen based on the severity of the condition of each patient. Patient satisfaction was assessed through a study-specific questionnaire administered 1 month after treatment. Self-esteem was assessed by the Rosenberg Self-Esteem (RSE) Scale, which was administered before treatment, and at 1, 6, and 12 months after treatment. RESULTS: A decrease in RSE scores was observed in the post-treatment period, indicating an improvement in self-esteem among patients. All patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results and would recommend the treatment to a friend. CONCLUSIONS: Fractional ablative CO2 laser treatment is associated with high levels of rhinophyma patient satisfaction, and significant improvements in self-esteem.
