The upper third of the face plays an important role in facial expression. Over time, changes such as ageing, gravity and environmental exposure may cause the brow to lower. This can contribute to a tired or stern appearance for some people. A Brow Lift also known as a Browplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to raise the position of the brow and smooth the appearance of lines across the forehead.
Dr Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne who provides a tailored approach to Brow Lift surgery. He personally performs all aspects of the procedure and is involved in each stage of care, from the initial consultation through to post-operative follow-up.
What is Brow Lift (Browplasty) Surgery?
A Brow Lift, also known as a Forehead Lift or Browplasty, is a surgical procedure that changes the position of the brow and may smooth the appearance of lines across the forehead or between the eyebrows.
The aim is to address concerns related to brow position and forehead appearance. Brow Lift surgery can be performed using different techniques, which may involve incisions along the hairline, within the hair, or endoscopic (keyhole) methods. The choice of technique will depend on individual anatomy, goals discussed with Dr Kode and his recommendation.
Am I a Suitable Candidate for a Brow Lift (Browplasty)?
The decision to undergo a Brow Lift is personal and should be made after a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon, like Dr Gary Kode, where individual goals, medical history and possible risks are discussed. A Brow Lift may be considered by people who:
- Have a brow position they feel contributes to a tired, stern, or aged appearance.
- Notice deep horizontal lines across the forehead or vertical lines between the eyebrows.
- Are in good general health and do not have medical conditions that could affect healing.
- Do not smoke or are willing to stop smoking for the period recommended by the surgeon.
- Have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve.
- Understand the potential risks, recovery process and limitations of surgery.
During your consultation, Dr Gary Kode will assess your facial anatomy, review your goal and make sure your expectations align with what can be realistically achieved.
Types of Brow Lift (Browplasty) Procedures
Brow Lift surgery can be performed using several techniques. The most suitable approach will depend on factors such as your facial anatomy, hairline position, skin quality and the degree of brow descent. Dr Kode will discuss these options during your consultation and recommend an approach tailored to your individual needs.
Endoscopic Brow Lift
- Performed through several small incisions within the hairline.
- A thin instrument with a camera (endoscope) is used to guide the release and repositioning of internal tissues.
- Muscles contributing to frown lines may be adjusted.
- Often associated with reduced visible scarring than open techniques.
- May be suitable for individuals with early brow descent and adequate hair density to conceal incisions.
Coronal Brow Lift
- An open surgical approach involving an incision across the scalp, typically behind the hairline, from ear to ear.
- Allows broad repositioning of the brow and forehead tissues.
- May be suitable for individuals with significant skin redundancy, deep forehead creases, or heavier forehead tissue.
- Usually not recommended for people with high foreheads or thinning hair due to incision placement.
Pre-trichal Brow Lift
- The incision is placed at the junction of the forehead and hairline.
- May be suitable for patients with a high or receding hairline.
- Allows for removal of forehead skin while bringing the hairline forward.
- This technique can help lift and balance the hairline position.
- May be preferred by older patients or those concerned about both the position of the brow (brow descent) and the length of the forehead.
Each technique has its own considerations, potential benefits, and limitations. Dr Gary Kode will outline the possible techniques and help you understand what each involves, so you can make an informed decision.
Brow Lift (Browplasty) Surgery
All surgeries are performed in accredited Melbourne hospitals, including Ramsay Surgical Centre Glenferrie and Masada Private Hospital. These facilities offer a controlled, well-equipped environment for elective surgical procedures.
Anaesthesia
The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia, which is administered by a qualified anaesthetist. Once the patient is unconscious, local anaesthetic is used on the surgical area. This approach may help reduce bleeding during the operation and can help with comfort during the immediate recovery period.
Surgical Process
On the day of surgery, patients are admitted to the hospital and undergo routine pre-operative preparation, which includes nursing care and a review by the anaesthetist.
Once anaesthesia has taken effect, Dr Gary Kode performs the Brow Lift using the most appropriate surgical technique for the individual (which will be discussed during your consultation). The chosen approach may vary depending on factors such as the patient’s anatomy, degree of brow descent and treatment goals.
During the operation, adjustments may be made to the muscles of the forehead. Soft tissue may also be repositioned and areas of excess skin will be carefully removed. These steps are undertaken with the aim of achieving a balanced result while optimise both aesthetic outcome and functional preservation.
Incisions are then closed with fine sutures to support proper healing and help limit the visibility of scars. In some cases, small dressings may be applied, depending on the extent of the lift and the surgical method used.
Dr Gary Kode personally completes every stage of the procedure without the use of surgical assistants. This approach allows for consistency and continuity of care throughout the operation.
Brow Lift (Browplasty) Before & After Photos
Before and after photos can sometimes be provided during a consultation to help illustrate the type of surgical results that may be achieved. These gallery images are intended as examples only and show the outcomes of past patients who have undergone Brow Lift surgery with Dr Gary Kode.
It is important to understand that every individual is unique and surgical results vary from person to person. Factors such as anatomy, skin quality, healing responses and the specific surgical technique used all influence the final outcome.
All photos are shared with written patient consent, in strict adherence to AHPRA advertising guidelines.
Disclaimer: Before and after photographs are provided for illustrative purposes only. They represent examples of outcomes experienced by other patients and should not be considered an indication of your own results. Each person’s outcome will vary based on factors such as individual anatomy, skin elasticity, age, healing capacity, and adherence to post-operative care instructions.
Recovery After a Brow Lift (Browplasty)
Recovery following Brow Lift surgery is an important stage in the overall process. While experiences can vary, most patients can expect a period of rest, temporary swelling or bruising before results become apparent.
Dr Gary Kode and his team provide detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care to support healing and comfort. Understanding the general recovery timeline can help you prepare for the practical aspects of surgery and set realistic expectations about returning to daily activities. The following is a general guide as to what patients can expect during the recovery process:
First 7–10 Days
Swelling and bruising are usually most noticeable during the first week. These effects can be managed with rest, cold compresses, elevation of the head and pain relief as advised. Some patients experience a sensation of tightness, numbness, or mild discomfort in the forehead or scalp area, which is generally temporary.
If non-absorbable sutures are used, they are often removed around 7–10 days following the procedure. During this period, patients should limit physical exertion, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity. Patients are also advised to sleep with their head elevated to support recovery.
2–4 Weeks
By week two to four week, bruising typically fades and swelling continues to reduce. Many individuals feel able to resume light social activities or return to work within 10–14 days, depending on their circumstances and the type of work they do. Makeup may be used to help conceal any remaining discolouration (once approved by Dr Kode). Patients are usually advised to continue avoiding vigorous exercise until cleared to do so.
1–3 Months
During this stage, the healing process progresses further. Scar maturation begins and any residual numbness or altered sensation generally dissipates over time.
The brow gradually settles into its new position and results become more apparent. It is important to remember that the recovery timeline can vary between individuals, depending on personal healing factors, the surgical technique used and adherence to post-operative care instructions.
Dr Gary Kode is involved in every stage of post-operative care. He regularly visits his patients in hospital (often twice per day) to provide reassurance, assess recovery and make early adjustments if necessary. Ongoing follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess progress and address questions throughout the recovery journey.
Potential Risks and Complications of Brow Lift (Browplasty) Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, Brow Lift surgery carries inherent risks. These risks include:
- Poor Scarring – All surgical procedures result in permanent scars. Incision lines may fade over time but can remain visible, raised, or thickened. Hypertrophic or keloid scarring may occur in some patients.
- Numbness or Altered Sensation: Temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness or tingling may occur around the forehead, scalp, or eyebrow area due to nerve involvement.
- Asymmetry: The two sides of the brow or forehead may heal differently, resulting in slight differences in position and shape.
- Hematoma: A collection of blood under the skin may develop and require drainage if significant.
- Infection: Infection at the incision site may occur and could require antibiotics or further medical attention.
- Skin Necrosis: Rarely, areas of skin may lose blood supply, which can lead to delayed healing or require additional treatment.
- Hairline Changes: Depending on the technique used, the position of the hairline may change. Some hair loss along the incision can occur.
- Delayed Healing: Healing may be slower in patients who smoke, have certain medical conditions, or experience tension on incision sites.
- Unsatisfactory Appearance: The brow may not settle as expected. Some patients may notice residual forehead lines, asymmetry, or brow positioning that differs from pre-surgical expectations.
Although Dr Kode takes precautions to reduce the likelihood of complications, they can still occur. He provides clear information about potential outcomes and monitors patients closely to support timely management if any issues arise during recovery.
For more information visit our Risks and Complications page.
About Brow Lift (Browplasty) Scars
Scar visibility depends on the chosen technique and individual healing characteristics. However, Dr Gary Kode takes precautions to reduce the appearance and visibility of scars after surgery, including:
- Endoscopic techniques which result in incisions that are hidden in the scalp, often undetectable once healed.
- Coronal brow lift scars which are placed within the hair-bearing scalp and fade over time with proper care.
- Pre-trichal scars, while located along the hairline they are designed to follow the transition between skin and hair, becoming less visible as they mature.
Post-operative care may include covering the incisions with dressings such as Hypafix and providing guidance on scar management techniques, including the potential use of silicone therapy if appropriate. Dr Kode will closely monitor healing during follow-up appointments and may update care recommendations based on individual progress to help support recovery and optimal wound healing.
Cost of Brow Lift (Browplasty) Surgery
The cost of Brow Lift surgery varies depending on several factors. These will be discussed in a one-on-one consultation. Influencing factors include:
- The complexity of the procedure and surgical time involved.
- The specific technique required (endoscopic, coronal, or pre-trichal).
- Associated hospital and anaesthetist fees, which vary by provider and duration.
- Post-operative care requirements, including dressings, reviews, and medications.
In compliance with AHPRA advertising guidelines, specific pricing cannot be listed publicly. However, during your consultation, Dr Gary Kode will provide a written estimate and discuss payment options. In some circumstances, if the brow descent impacts vision, a partial rebate from Medicare or private health insurance may apply.
FAQs About Brow Lift (Browplasty) Surgery
Book a Consultation with Dr Kode
If you are considering Brow Lift surgery in Melbourne, we invite you to schedule a personal consultation with Dr Gary Kode. During your visit, Dr Kode will listen to your concerns, assess your facial anatomy and provide a clear, customised plan to help you make an informed decision.
Further Reading related to Brow Lift (Browplasty) Surgery
- Read Dr Gary Kode’s Procedure Page on Face Surgery
