Postrhinoplasty "red nose": differential diagnosis and treatment by laser.
Prior to anticipated nasal surgery, the nasal and facial skin should be examined for any vascular lesions. The skin type should be ascertained. A history of any prior nasal surgery, particularly on the nasal dorsum, should be noted. If rosacea is a clinical possibility, a trial of 1.5 to 2.0 gm q.d. of tetracycline for 6 to 8 weeks is warranted. If, after rhinoplasty, a diffuse "redness" on the nasal dorsum results and one can exclude other diagnoses, then argon laser therapy should be considered. A 3-mm punch biopsy should be obtained to see whether superficial ectatic vessels are present, a finding that would be indicative of a good result from laser therapy.
D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004890:Erythema / Q000175:diagnosis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D009666:Nose / Q000098:blood supply*; D012225:Rhinoplasty / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012393:Rosacea / Q000175:diagnosis; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply*; D013684:Telangiectasis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery