An open rhinoplasty refers to a surgical technique where the incision is made across the columella, the strip of skin that separates the nostrils. This allows the surgeon to see and access the underlying structure of the nose more easily.

A closed rhinoplasty refers to a surgical technique where the incision is made inside the nostrils, and the skin is not lifted off the nose. This technique allows the surgeon to access the underlying structures of the nose with more precision. Both techniques have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of technique will depend on the specific case and the surgeon’s preference and expertise.