W.C. Fields Nose Remedied by Rhinoplasty?

The late W.C. Fields had a condition called rhinophyma. This is an exaggerated form of rosacea that results in a red, lumpy, nodular appearance of the skin of the nose and nasal tip. Alcohol consumption may worsen this condition.

Rhinophyma is not treated with typical Rhinoplasty Surgery which usually serves to modify underlying nasal bones and cartilage. 

I have had nice success dealing with rhinophyma nasal irregularities in the office, using local anesthetic. I have used a combination of shaving the irregular skin, along with light electrosurgery to provide a smoother more pleasing appearance.

I hope you find this helpful

Diseases such as rhinophyma (WC Field's nose), nasal skin cancer, septal deflection, turbinate hyperrtrophy, sinus disease or obstruction, vestibular stenosis, epistaxis, septal fistula, concha bullosa, etc can all be managed with various forms of rhinosetpplasty

Hi Cyrano,

Honkeritis, Good Lookin' Nose Deficiency, and How Long Have You Been Living with that Nose? are the only medical diseases cured by rhinoplasty.  The answer is that rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that does not remedy any true diseases.  Rhinophyma or "W.C. Fields" nose is treated by excising the hypertrophied skin, not rhinoplasty.

Good luck and be well.

Dr. P(inochio)

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.