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 1.5-2.0 g q.d. [4 times/day] of tetracycline for 6-8 wk is warranted. If, after rhinoplasty, a diffuse redness on the nasal dorsum results and other diagnoses can be excluded, then Ar 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.