Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) in Bellevue
Balanced, Natural-Looking Results
Aesthetic ear surgery at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is designed to reshape, reposition, or resize ears that protrude, appear asymmetrical, or cause self-consciousness — delivering balanced, natural-looking results that harmonize with your face. Dr. Kristopher Day, double board-certified and one of the only craniofacial fellowship-trained surgeons in Bellevue, approaches every otoplasty with precision anatomy and an artist’s eye for facial proportion. Whether you are seeking ear pinning for yourself or a child, he creates a personalized surgical plan around your exact anatomy and goals.
Double Board-Certified (ABPS + ABS)
Ivy League Trained
Highly Rated Bellevue Plastic Surgeon
Proudly Serving Bellevue, Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, Mercer Island, Issaquah, Renton
What Is Aesthetic Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)?
Aesthetic ear surgery — commonly called otoplasty or ear pinning — is an outpatient surgical procedure designed to correct ears that protrude too far from the head, appear asymmetrical, or have an irregular shape. It is one of the most transformative procedures in facial plastic surgery because even subtle improvements in ear position create a significant change in overall facial balance and patient confidence.
Otoplasty is appropriate for both adults and children (generally age 5 and older, once ear cartilage is fully developed). The surgery typically involves reshaping, folding, or repositioning the ear cartilage through small incisions placed discreetly behind the ear — leaving no visible scarring when healed.
Dr. Day’s craniofacial fellowship training provides a distinct advantage in otoplasty. The ear’s cartilaginous framework is among the most complex three-dimensional structures in the face, and the subspecialty training required for craniofacial reconstruction builds an unparalleled foundation for ear reshaping with precision and symmetry.
Common Concerns Otoplasty Addresses
- Prominently protruding ears (ear pinning)
- Asymmetry between left and right ear
- Underdeveloped antihelical fold (the inner ridge of the ear)
- Excessively large earlobes
- Cup ear deformity (shell or lop ear)
- Ears altered by prior trauma or injury
Benefits of Aesthetic Ear Surgery
Ear surgery offers lasting results from a single outpatient procedure. Unlike many cosmetic concerns that can be addressed non-surgically, prominent or misshapen ears cannot be corrected with injectables or topical treatments — making otoplasty the definitive solution for patients who have lived with this concern for years.
Key Benefits:
- Long-lasting correction — results turn back the clock on ear prominence and are designed to be stable for years to come.
- Outpatient procedure with local or general anesthesia — no overnight hospital stay
- Scarring hidden behind the ear — essentially invisible after healing
- Significant improvement in facial symmetry and overall appearance
- Improved confidence and quality of life, especially in children and teens
- Safe and well-studied procedure with a long, established track record
- Single surgery — no staged procedures required in most cases
For children and teenagers, otoplasty can be particularly meaningful. Ear prominence is a common target for teasing, and surgical correction before the school years can have a profound positive impact on social confidence and self-image.
“My procedure went excellent, end result looks very good.”
— Ivan C., Otoplasty Patient • Google Review
Am I a Good Candidate for an Aesthetic Ear Surgery?
Otoplasty is appropriate for a wide range of patients. During your consultation, Dr. Day will evaluate your ear anatomy, overall facial proportions, medical history, and goals to determine whether ear surgery — or a specific technique — is the right fit for you.
- You May Be a Strong Candidate If:
- You are bothered by ears that protrude significantly from your head
- You have visible asymmetry between your ears
- Your child (age 5+) is self-conscious about ear prominence
- Your ear cartilage is fully or nearly fully developed
- You are in good overall health with no active infections
- You have realistic expectations and a specific, articulable goal
- You are a non-smoker (or willing to quit before/after surgery)
- You May Not Be a Candidate If:
- You have an active ear or skin infection in the surgical area
- You have bleeding disorders or conditions that impair wound healing
- You are a child under age 5 (ear cartilage not fully developed)
- You have unrealistic expectations about the outcome
- You are currently taking blood thinners that cannot be safely paused
- You have had recent ear surgery and are still in the healing phase
- You are pregnant or currently nursing
Not Sure If You're a Candidate?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Day to discuss your goals and options.
Your Aesthetic Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) Journey
Step 1: Consultation
Your otoplasty begins with an in-depth consultation at our Bellevue office. Dr. Day will examine your ear anatomy, discuss your specific concerns, and recommend the techniques best suited to your goals. He will review before-and-after examples, answer your questions thoroughly, and provide a clear picture of what results are achievable for your unique anatomy. Imaging or surgical planning photos may be taken at this visit.
The Procedure
Otoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure lasting one to two hours. Depending on patient age and case complexity, it may be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Day places small incisions behind the ear — in the natural crease — where they will be invisible once healed. The cartilage is then reshaped, folded, or repositioned to achieve the desired contour and projection, and sutures are placed to secure the new position. Both ears are treated in the same session when bilateral correction is needed.
Immediately After Surgery
Patients go home the same day wearing a soft bandage or headband around the ears to protect the repair and minimize swelling. Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort, easily managed with prescribed medication. Swelling and bruising are expected in the first week and resolve progressively.
Step 4: Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
What to Expect
Bandage worn at all times; walking is encouraged starting the day after surgery — short, gentle movement is beneficial to circulation
Days 4–7
What to Expect
Bandage transitioned to a lighter headband; desk work and school appropriate for most patients by end of Week 1
Weeks 2–4
What to Expect
Light exercise permitted; avoid contact sports and activities that could impact the ears
Weeks 4–6
What to Expect
Full activity clearance; ears appear close to final result
3–6 months
What to Expect
Final result fully settled as residual swelling resolves
“After having 4 other consultations with 4 other plastic surgeons , we felt most comfortable with Dr. Day.His explanations of the surgery was very detailed and his openness to answering our questions gaves us the confidence that we choose the right sergeon.”
— Sheron H., Surgical Patient • Google Review
Why Dr. Day's Craniofacial Training Sets Him Apart for Ear Surgery
Not all plastic surgeons are equally trained in the structural complexity of ear anatomy. The ear contains one of the most intricate cartilage frameworks in the human body — the helix, antihelix, concha, tragus, and lobule must each be assessed and addressed in precise proportion to achieve a natural result. Generic plastics training touches on otoplasty; craniofacial fellowship makes it a specialty.
Following his surgical residency, Dr. Day completed a craniofacial surgery fellowship focused on the advanced reconstruction and reshaping of facial bones, cartilage, and soft tissue. This subspecialty training is specifically concerned with the three-dimensional architecture of the face and skull, the very anatomy that determines otoplasty outcomes.
What This Means for Your Procedure:
- Deep anatomical expertise in ear cartilage geometry and proportion
- Precise suture placement techniques developed through complex craniofacial reconstruction cases
- Symmetry-focused surgical planning using advanced three-dimensional assessment
- Experience managing asymmetrical cases, revisions, and complex congenital ear concerns
Dr. Day is one of the only craniofacial fellowship-trained surgeons in Bellevue — a credential that directly benefits patients seeking ear surgery with natural, lasting results.
What Results Can I Expect from a Aesthetic Ear Surgery?
The goal of aesthetic ear surgery is not to create a “perfect” ear, but to create ears that look naturally proportionate — ears that no longer draw attention, so your face can. Most patients describe feeling as though their appearance now matches how they have always pictured themselves.
Dr. Day’s approach emphasizes preserving the ear’s natural contours while correcting the specific anatomical issue — whether that is excessive protrusion, asymmetry, or irregular cartilage shape. Results are designed to be subtle yet significant: noticeable to the patient, invisible as surgical work to everyone else.
“My wife used Dr. Day for surgery and both he and his staff were amazing. He was very knowledgeable about what he does, compassionate and easily accessible for post op questions. His front desk staff, especially Sophia, is also phenomenal and so helpful in getting all insurance information done. Would highly recommend them!”
— Samantha S., Surgical Patient • Google Review
Ear Surgery Cost in Bellevue
The cost of otoplasty at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery depends on several individualized factors. During your consultation, Dr. Day will provide a detailed estimate based on your specific anatomy, the techniques required, and your goals.
What Affects Your Price:
- Unilateral (one ear) vs. bilateral (both ears) correction
- Complexity of the cartilage reshaping required
- Anesthesia type (local with sedation vs. general anesthesia)
- Facility and operating room fees
- Post-operative garments and supplies
What’s Included in Your Ear Surgery Investment
Your surgical fee at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery includes:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Facility/operating room fee
- Anesthesia (administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist)
- Enhanced Recovery After Surgery medication (Exparel)
- Cosmetic surgery insurance coverage (Cosmetasure)
- High-end compression garment (Isavella)
- High-end scar ointment (Biocorneum)
- Swelling and bruising ointment (Arnica)
- Post-operative recovery and follow-up care
Financing Options
We believe cost should not be the only factor in your decision. Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery accepts CareCredit (6-month promotional financing available) and Alphaeon Credit, offering flexible payment options to make your procedure more accessible. Our patient care coordinator is happy to walk you through available plans during your consultation.
Starting from $5,500
Aesthetic ear surgery at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery typically starts from $5,500. Final pricing is confirmed at your consultation.
Why Choose Dr. Kristopher Day for Your Ear Surgery?
Credentials That Matter for This Procedure
- Double Board-Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and American Board of Surgery (ABS)
- Ivy League Trained, with Craniofacial Fellowship — advanced subspecialty training in facial cartilage and bone surgery directly applicable to otoplasty
- Only craniofacial fellowship-trained plastic surgeon in Bellevue
- 10+ years of surgical experience
- 30+ peer-reviewed publications with H-index comparable to plastic surgery program directors
- Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Facilities: Swedish Medical Center, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Carillon Point Surgery Center
The Boutique Difference
Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery operates as a boutique practice — meaning Dr. Day personally performs every procedure and spends unparalleled time with each patient from consultation through final follow-up. Patients are not seen by residents, physician assistants, or rotating staff. You work directly with one of the most credentialed surgeons in Bellevue, every step of the way.
Conveniently Located for Eastside Families
Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is centrally located in downtown Bellevue, making Dr. Day’s fellowship-trained expertise accessible to families throughout Bellevue and the greater Eastside — without the stress of navigating Seattle traffic. Our patients enjoy a private, boutique surgical experience with on-site validated parking, just minutes from the communities they call home.
Seattle
~15 minutes
World-class plastic surgery results without the downtown Seattle parking hassle. A quick drive across SR-520 or I-90 to our private Bellevue office.
Kirkland
~10 minutes
Just minutes from downtown Kirkland and the Juanita waterfront via I-405 or surface streets.
Redmond
~10 minutes
Convenient for the Redmond tech community via SR-520 or surface streets.
Mercer Island
~10 minutes
A quick drive across I-90. Our discreet, private environment is ideal for discerning Mercer Island residents.
Issaquah
~10 minutes
Convenient for Issaquah Highlands and Gilman Village area families via I-90.
Renton
~5 minutes
Easy access from Renton and the Landing via I-405 North. Boutique care and personalized attention just minutes away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is otoplasty, and what can it correct?
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape, reposition, or resize the ears. It most commonly corrects prominent or protruding ears, but it can also address asymmetry, an underdeveloped antihelical fold, excessively large earlobes, or ear deformities resulting from trauma or prior surgery.
What is the right age for ear surgery?
Ear cartilage is generally fully developed by age 5–6, making otoplasty possible for school-age children. Many families choose to address ear prominence before the child enters kindergarten or elementary school. Adults of any age are also excellent candidates. Dr. Day evaluates each patient individually — there is no upper age limit.
Will there be visible scarring after otoplasty?
Incisions are placed in the natural crease directly behind the ear, making them essentially invisible once healed. The scar is hidden from both front and back views when the ear rests in its new position.
Is ear surgery performed under local or general anesthesia?
This depends on patient age and case complexity. Many adult patients are comfortable with local anesthesia and sedation. Pediatric patients typically require general anesthesia. Dr. Day will recommend the safest and most appropriate option for your specific situation during your consultation.
How long does otoplasty take?
The procedure typically takes one to two hours for bilateral correction (both ears). Unilateral procedures (one ear) may be completed in under an hour. Patients go home the same day.
What is recovery like, and when can I return to work?
Most adult patients return to desk work or school within the first week. Walking is encouraged starting the day after surgery. A protective bandage or headband is worn for the first several days, transitioning to a lighter headband at night for additional weeks. Light exercise is permitted at Weeks 2–4; strenuous activity and contact sports are restricted until Weeks 4–6. Children typically recover quickly and comfortably.
Are the results of ear surgery permanent?
Otoplasty produces long-lasting results. Once the cartilage has healed in its corrected position — typically within a few months — the shape is stable and designed to last for many years. Unlike injectables, there is no need for routine maintenance.
Does insurance cover ear surgery?
Cosmetic otoplasty is generally not covered by insurance. However, if ear surgery is recommended to correct a congenital deformity or post-traumatic ear deformity, partial coverage may be possible. Our patient care coordinator is happy to assist you in reviewing your options during consultation.
Why is Dr. Day's craniofacial training relevant to ear surgery?
Craniofacial fellowship training provides advanced expertise in facial cartilage and bone architecture beyond standard plastic surgery training. This subspecialty training, which Dr. Day completed after his Ivy League residency, directly translates to more precise cartilage reshaping and natural-looking results.
How do I schedule a consultation for ear surgery in Bellevue?
You can schedule directly through our online booking portal or by calling Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery at (425) 818-8991. Our Bellevue office is located at 1260 116th Avenue NE, Suite 100, Bellevue, WA 98004, serving patients from Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, Mercer Island, Issaquah, and Renton.