Chondrolysis of the Nasal Cartilages as a Sequela of Rhinophyma Treatment: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Chondrolysis is a rare pathology that can complicate rhinophyma surgery. The resulting defect poses more complex repair challenges. We report a case of chondrolysis of the nasal cartilages as a sequel to rhinophyma treatment. Our objective was, based on this case and literature data, to present our therapeutic approach. This concerned a 65-year-old patient, presented with a voluminous rhinophyma evolving for 15 years, causing not only aesthetic impairment but also nasal obstruction. The excision was performed in one piece with an electric scalpel, hemostasis achieved using a bipolar coagulating forceps while preserving the nasal cartilages. The excision site was left for directed healing. Postoperative outcomes for our patient were marked by transfixing apexo-alar nasal substance losses following chondrolysis of the nasal cartilages. Faced with this defect, a repair surgery was undertaken not only to fill the substance loss but also to restore an appearance as normal and aesthetic as possible, ensuring functional reconstruction.