What does an "open" and "close" surgery mean?

This used to be a source of controversy and disagreement.  Closed Rhinoplasty is the traditional approach to the nose, open Rhinoplasty became more popular in rte 90's. However, it isn't widely debated anymore with the exception of those Surgeons who promote "closed" Rhinoplasty as a healing advantage (it isn't).  The major difference between the two in terms of incisions is a incision across the columella (skin bridge between the nostrils), which heals beautifully.  The open approach offers better visualization of anatomy and is considered more valuable for complex tip work and revision cases.  Some Surgeons feel more comfortable with the open versus closed and vice versa.  I would focus your concerns on the quality and experience of the Surgeon in Rhinoplasty, which should far outweigh any concerns about approach.

Both approaches are acceptable.   For the first 10 years of my rhinoplasty practice I preferred the open approach for most noses.  Having performed rhinoplasty for almost 25 years I now believe the "closed "or "endonasal"  approach is a much less traumatic and predictable  approach in my hands.The incisions are illustrated in my book Rhinoplasty; Everything You Need to Know about Fixing and Shaping Your Nose available on Amazon