Leo J. Urbinelli, MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon *Top Plastic Surgeon in CNY* Bringing his expertise from NYC and Los Angeles back home to Upstate NY
Nasal reshaping surgery addresses function and structure rather than appearance alone: a deviated septum, collapse of the nasal valve, injury after trauma, and reconstruction after skin cancer removal. Functional surgery is often covered by insurance, and financing covers the rest. For cosmetic shape, see rhinoplasty or all services.
Dr. Urbinelli handles your Nasal Reshaping Surgery in Syracuse, New York, as an artist and technically skilled expert in plastic and reconstructive surgery. He doesn’t look at your nose as only one isolated part of the face. It sits next to the eyes, lips, cheeks, and chin, and strongly impacts how your whole face looks from the front and side.
At Premier Aesthetics, Dr. Urbinelli uses both open and closed rhinoplasty methods, depending on the areas to address and what your nose demands. He also employs preservation rhinoplasty methods to preserve as much original anatomy as possible to achieve the nasal result, or he uses standard structural techniques when needed to create the desired nasal form and function.
The main goal is to reduce trauma as much as possible, while still ensuring a lasting shape, structure, and function.
Dr. Urbinelli may recommend nasal surgery to address:
Some patients come in wanting a cosmetic change. Often the exam reveals airflow issues, as well. Dr. Urbinelli understands both sides, so the plan does not sacrifice one issue to improve the other. The nose should work in harmony.
Cosmetic Nasal Reconstruction Surgery in Syracuse, NY, can vary widely from one patient to another and can range from more straightforward hump reduction to a more deeply complex revision rhinoplasty in another.
Dr. Urbinelli studies the bridge, tip, nasal bones, septum, cartilage, as well as the strength, skin thickness, and airway before deciding what technique is most appropriate.
Dr. Urbinelli may use structural cartilage grafting if the nose needs support. This could mean using ear cartilage grafting, rib cartilage grafting, or cadaver rib grafts for more detailed reshaping or airway structural support.
These advanced ways can help improve nasal collapse, make weak areas stronger, help with revision surgeries, or support more dramatic nasal profile changes.
Depending on your anatomy, Dr. Urbinelli may utilize:
These options were not always easy to find in Upstate NY. Dr. Urbinelli brings them together under one careful plan.
Nasal surgery is personal. Some people have thought about it since high school. Others only start considering it after an injury, a breathing problem, or a failed past procedure.
Dr. Urbinelli does not treat these concerns lightly. A nose is central. The decision carries weight.
You may be a good candidate if:
Dr. Urbinelli will tell you what is realistic. A strong result starts with clear expectations before surgery ever happens.
Good nasal surgery should not only improve nasal form, but it should respect breathing, too.
Dr. Urbinelli evaluates internal structure and external shape together, since both may affect the final result. A nose that looks refined but does not breathe well is not the goal, and a complete success improves the form and function.
Recovery is not instant. Dr. Urbinelli explains this before surgery, so patients know what to expect. Swelling, stuffiness, bruising, and tenderness can happen early on. The nose may look improved quickly, but the final shape takes form over time.
Some changes show in weeks. Others take longer, up to months or 1-2 years. The tip can especially hold swelling. Dr. Urbinelli follows healing closely and gives guidance at each stage.
The process can feel slow at times. Soon the face starts looking more balanced. Patients often notice the change in the side profile first, and the upper nasal bones and the tip take longer to reveal their final result.
Premier Aesthetics is offering the following services in Syracuse, New York:
Nasal reshaping surgery
Cosmetic nasal reconstruction surgery
Rhinoplasty and septoplasty
Facial rejuvenation surgery
Gynecomastia surgery
Lip augmentation
Hair restoration
Skin tightening and resurfacing
Pediatric Reconstructive Surgery
With his deep knowledge of plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as craniofacial surgery, Dr. Urbinelli makes it comfortable for patients to discuss their nasal concerns and devise a surgical plan while engaging the patient in every step of the process.
Patients choose Dr. Urbinelli because his approach is direct, down-to-earth, detailed, and built around precise respect for anatomy. He explains what is possible, realistic, and what may not be worth doing.
His plan for nasal surgery involves utilizing state-of-the-art nasal preservation methods, both open and closed techniques, adding structural support, cartilage grafting if necessary, and making exact and sub-millimeter changes for tip and alar refinement.
He also keeps trauma reduction in mind. That does not mean every case is small. It means each step is chosen with care, delicate tissue handling, and a well-thought-out approach.
People often arrive nervous. Dr. Urbinelli understands that even a small change to the nose can feel major. So he approaches each consult with kindness, openness, and a partnership approach so the consultation stays personalized, welcoming, and focused on the unique needs of the patient.
A better nose should not garner extra attention. It should let the rest of the face come forward. The eyes may look more visible, more open, and more brilliant. The profile may feel softer, less overwhelming. The lips and chin may appear more balanced. Dr. Urbinelli plans nasal reshaping with that full-face view in mind.
For some patients, the concern is mainly cosmetic. For others, breathing is the bigger issue. Sometimes trauma, prior surgery, or weak cartilage complicate the picture.
Dr. Urbinelli has the training to work through these concerns with a plan that respects the face and airway.
Call Premier Aesthetics today if you are ready to talk with Dr. Urbinelli about your nose, your breathing, and your goals.
A nasal reshaping procedure changes the look or structure of your nose. It can help improve the bridge, tip, nostrils, symmetry, or how easily you breathe.
Indeed, nasal reshaping or “nose job” is often the term people typically use for rhinoplasty (to mold, modify, or shape the nose). Dr. Urbinelli will also check for septal or airway concerns during the consultation.
Absolutely. If you’re struggling to breathe because of your nasal structure, Dr. Urbinelli can improve the function of your nose at the same time he performs cosmetic reshaping.
Closed rhinoplasty makes incisions inside your nose. Open rhinoplasty uses those same incisions of a closed rhinoplasty plus a small cut on the outside (under the nose) to allow for better direct visualization for complex changes during surgery (revision or challenging tip work).
That is the goal. Dr. Urbinelli plans surgery around your facial features so the result looks refined, improved, enhanced, but not artificial or obvious.
![]()
John Beau SaulTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr. Urbinelli was outstanding in every aspect. He took his time to explain everything so we all knew exactly everything occurring. In addition to his expert knowledge sand work, he's also very personable![]()
Colleen VolmutTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
After doing a thorough research for a plastic surgeon, I had a consultation with Dr Leo Urbanelli I immediately felt at ease talking to him about what I was hoping to accomplish. His depth of his knowledge and skill as a surgeon became obvious as he discussed the variations of my options. Dr. Leo would look at a particular area of my face and tell me what he could do and how it would look. He spent a great deal of time with me and answered all my questions and concerns. We both decided what would be the best procedure for me. I am just 8 weeks post surgery and my face, neck and brow lifts came out so much better than I could have possibly imagined. The stages of my recovery were exactly what he said they would be. I knew what to expect and how I would feel as my recovery progressed. He truly takes great pride in his work and cares deeply for his patients. He has always been available day, night and even weekends. He is an incredibly talented surgeon and the most thoughtful person you will ever meet. He is a true artist.![]()
Debi SuarezTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I can’t say enough wonderful things about my experience. I was extremely nervous going into this, and from the very first appointment, he made me feel completely at ease. He took the time to listen, explain everything clearly, and truly understand my concerns. He treated a cyst-like spot for me and repaired an area that kept reopening, something that had been both frustrating and worrisome. The results have been amazing, and I couldn’t be happier. Not only did he fix the issue, but he did so with such care and precision. What really stood out to me was his kindness and attention to detail. At one point, he even noticed and studied some of my old scars, which honestly made me giggle—it’s clear he sees things through a very skilled and thoughtful lens. His passion for what he does really shows. I’m so grateful I trusted him with something I was so scared to do. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a talented, compassionate surgeon.![]()
Nikki Ann WaltersTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I met with Dr. Leo in 2025 with anxiety and hesitation, I left with hope. During my visit he was patient, empathetic, and kind. He brought to light an issue of Lipedema that has plagued me for decades. After two procedures, I can say his professional skills and bedside manner are unmatched. I’m looking forward to a life of no limitations and more confidence, while looking better than I have in years. Thank you!![]()
Emily DygertTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr. Urbinelli is the best! He performed a breast reduction on me in December 2024 and choosing him as my surgeon was the best decision I have ever made. My results are exactly what I asked for and my self-confidence has increased tremendously. I am now able to live an active lifestyle without being uncomfortable or in pain. I consulted with other surgeons and none of them made me feel as confident and comfortable as Dr. Urbinelli did. He treats his patients like family and it is so evident that he loves what he does. Anytime I had a question or concern, Dr. Urbinelli got me in the office within one or two days to address my concern (and often offered to do virtual appointments so I didn’t have to take too much time out of my day to travel to the office). Upstate NY is so lucky to have a plastic surgeon as knowledgeable, professional, and talented as Dr. Urbinelli. I would recommend him to anyone!![]()
Mary KlockowskiTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr. Urbinelli is everything you could hope for in a surgeon—compassionate, encouraging, empathetic, and incredibly responsive. From my very first consultation through surgery and recovery, he was attentive and never made me feel rushed, always taking the time to answer my many questions with patience and care. This experience has truly been life-changing. Not only am I thrilled with the results of my abdominoplasty, but my confidence and overall mental well-being have improved in ways I didn’t expect. I feel more like myself again and genuinely excited about the future. I cannot recommend Dr. Urbinelli highly enough—he is an exceptional surgeon and a truly caring professional.![]()
Monica DezaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I am so happy with Dr. urbinelli s work! For my 43rd birthday, I treated myself to a midface lift and lower bleph. He was great, honest , gave me realistic expectations, responsive , kind and delivered exactly the results I was hoping for. We discussed several pathways to get the refreshed look I was hoping for, and he discussed it with me with so much patience . These are my before and afters only a short time after the procedure ! Thank you Dr!![]()
Karrie NewkirkTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Dr. Urbinelli is absolutely outstanding. His attention to detail and pursuit of perfection are truly every patient’s dream. You can immediately tell he is not only highly skilled but also deeply passionate about his work. He takes the time to listen and ensures that everything is tailored exactly to what you need. Syracuse Plastic Surgery is the gold standard. Having such a talented, caring, and supportive team all under one roof is truly a blessing for any patient seeking the highest level of care and results. 🩷💎🩷![]()
Patricia MaycumberTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I cannot praise Dr. Urbinelli and the staff of Syracuse Plastic Surgery enough for the care which was given to me during my recent surgery and recovery. Dr. Urbinelli is caring person and an artist at what he does. He was responsive to all my needs especially due to an unforeseen issue during my recovery. Dr. Urbinelli even made a house call to teach my sister how to dress my wound. I traveled far from Las Vegas to Syracuse, NY because he is a reconstructive facial specialist. I am so pleased with my results. I highly recommend Dr. Urbinelli for any reconstructive or plastic surgery you may need.![]()
Sam BredenbeckTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I waited as long as possible to write this review because I was holding out hope that I could leave a rave, 5-star review, but I can't. I had a revision surgery in August of 2023, in an attempt to correct my breathing and fix countless issues the first surgeon left behind. Knowing this surgery wouldn't be a small task, I tried to remain patient and hopeful with Dr. Urbinelli and team that all would go great. It didn't. My breathing is the same, if not worse, than before (which is terrible). It feels like I am suffocating all day, every day. The aesthetic of my nose has gotten worse (fat, asymmetrical, twisted, etc.). The columella scar is still visible. Swelling refuses to go down. I still have a septal perforation, collapsed nasal valves, deviated septum, and enlarged turbinates. He used a cadaver rib, which seems to be curved and feels rock hard, which is extremely annoying. I have a foul odor that has been persistent since surgery. And when I can't smell that, my sense of smell is practically non-existent. The entire process has been miserable and extremely frustrating. I did everything (and more) that I was told. Taping, Vaseline, elevation, icing, no exercise, sprays, cleanses, follow-up appts. every single thing. Yet, I still can't breathe, my nose looks terrible, in my opinion...and I'm out thousands of dollars. I am bummed to leave a poor review because I truly did want it to be positive, but I can't at this time. The surgery failed, and now I'm left with very few options to actually get this fixed. Regretful is an understatement. Dr. Urbinelli is nice, did a good job with bedside manner, and the anesthesiologist did a great job. Unfortunately, the office staff and Dr. Urbinelli were unresponsive many times after surgery, but I gave them the benefit of the doubt. Overall, it is frustrating, mentally debilitating, and I'm at a loss for what to do next. If you're looking to get surgery done for breathing issues or reconstruction of the nasal area, I would suggest going to a nose specialist instead of a general plastic surgeon.
If you’re thinking about “Nose Job” or Rhinoplasty – Nasal Reshaping Surgery in Syracuse, NY, Premier Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery of NY is the perfect spot to begin.
Dr. Urbinelli will talk about your concerns, explain your options, and discuss with you what kind of result is realistic.
Book your consultation with Premier Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery of NY and take the first step toward a nose that looks balanced and works great for you!