Facial discoloration

I have had red discoloration on my face for about 3 years now. It was diagnosed offhand as rosacea, and I was prescribed metronidazole. I don't think it's rosacea. It's basically only on the outsides of my cheeks and my temples. It does not itch, burn,have bumps, or hurt; it's just ugly. It makes my cheeks look baggy, because it's swollen. It also does not look like the butterfly rash of lupus, and it's not flaming red, just reddish brown. I'm a well managed type 2 diabetic, 53 years old. Only medication is one 500mg. glucophage a day. Any suggestions ?
Dee

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it looks like rosacea. But along with topical metronidazole, we use other treatment options also for rosacea. Rosacea is a cutaneous disorder primarily of the central part of the face , such as forehead; cheeks ;nose; and chin.
Treatment options vary from antibiotic creams, antihistaminics, sun screens to laser treatment. A dermatologist’s evaluation will be the best.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.