W.C. Fields Nose Remedied by Rhinoplasty?

W.C. Fields’ nose is called a rhinophyma. This is not typically addressed through a rhinoplasty, but through a contouring of the nasal skin by dermabrasion. A dermabrader is used to sculpt the nose by sanding it to its new shape.

Rhinophyma is a nasal condition where the where the external nose is pink, large, & bulbous due to rosacea and hypertrophy of the skin's sebaceous glands. It is a slowly progressive condition of the nasal skin, primarily of the tip. Rhinophyma is more commonly seen in alcoholics and middle-aged men.

Treatment for rhinophyma is generally nasal surgery and/or laser ablation on the skin. Plastic surgeons may disagree on the definition of rhinoplasty. While usually considered cosmetic, rhinoplasty covers a very broad range of procedures on the nose, and plays a role for this medical condition. Speak with a nasal surgeon to help determine appropriate treatment options for you.