The upper third of the face plays a pivotal role in how we express ourselves. Over time, ageing, gravity, and environmental factors can cause the brow to droop, creating a fatigued, stern, or aged appearance. A brow lift is a surgical procedure designed to gently elevate the brow, reduce forehead lines, and restore a more refreshed, natural look.
Dr. Gary Kode, a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne, offers a highly personalised approach to brow lift surgery. With a strong focus on natural outcomes and attention to detail, Dr. Kode performs all procedures himself and sees every patient through the full surgical journey—from consultation to post-operative care.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Brow Lift?
A brow lift may be suitable if you experience any of the following concerns:
- Visible brow descent, where the eyebrows sit lower than their original position, often resulting in a sad or tired appearance, especially at the outer corners of the eyes.
- Deep forehead wrinkles or horizontal lines that persist even at rest, giving the face a prematurely aged look.
- Pronounced frown lines or “11 lines” between the eyebrows that create an angry or tense expression, even when relaxed.
- Excess skin or hooding of the upper eyelids, particularly if related to a low-set brow rather than eyelid skin itself.
- Desire for subtle facial rejuvenation without drastically altering one’s appearance, with an interest in long-term improvement rather than temporary measures.
Patients should be in good general health, non-smokers or willing to cease smoking pre- and post-operatively, and emotionally prepared for surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Gary Kode will assess your facial anatomy, review your goals, and ensure your expectations align with what can be realistically and safely achieved.
Types of Brow Lift Procedures
Different brow lift techniques are used depending on the patient’s anatomy, facial structure, and desired result. Dr. Gary Kode will recommend the most appropriate surgical method based on your individual assessment.
Endoscopic Brow Lift
- Involves several small incisions placed discreetly within the hairline.
- A thin instrument with a camera (endoscope) is used to guide internal tissue release and repositioning.
- Muscles responsible for frown lines may be gently released or adjusted.
- Offers a shorter recovery period and reduced scarring compared to open techniques.
- Suitable for individuals with early brow descent and good 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.
- Provides a significant lift and allows for broad repositioning of the brow and forehead tissues.
- Ideal for individuals with significant skin redundancy, deeper wrinkles, or heavier forehead tissue.
- Not typically used in patients with high foreheads or thinning hair due to the location of the incision.
Pre-trichal Brow Lift
- The incision is placed at the junction of the forehead and hairline, making it well-suited for patients with a high or receding hairline.
- Allows for removal of forehead skin while bringing the hairline forward, creating both a lift and a more balanced hairline position.
- Particularly effective in older patients or those concerned with both brow descent and forehead length.
Each of these approaches has distinct benefits, and Dr. Gary Kode will guide you through the options to ensure the chosen method aligns with your goals and preserves the natural contours of your face.
Surgery for Brow Lift
All brow lift surgeries are performed in accredited Melbourne hospitals, including Glenferrie Private Hospital and Masada Private Hospital. These facilities provide a safe, controlled environment for elective surgical procedures.
Anaesthesia
- Procedures are generally carried out under general anaesthesia, ensuring patient comfort throughout.
- Dr. Gary Kode uses a combination of general anaesthesia and local anaesthetic (once the patient is asleep) to minimise intraoperative bleeding and support post-operative comfort.
Surgical Process
- Patients are admitted and prepared for surgery with full nursing support and anaesthetic assessment.
- Once asleep, Dr. Gary Kode performs the procedure using the selected technique, with care taken to preserve facial harmony and natural expression.
- Muscle adjustments, tissue repositioning, and skin removal are completed using meticulous technique to optimise both aesthetic outcome and functional preservation.
- Incisions are closed with fine sutures to support discreet scarring and proper healing.
- Dressings may be applied depending on the extent of the lift and technique used.
Notably, Dr. Gary Kode does not use surgical assistants. He believes in performing all operative steps himself to maintain precision, continuity, and consistency in care.
Photos/Gallery of Brow Lift Results
A curated gallery of before-and-after images is available for prospective patients to explore. These photographs demonstrate a range of natural, balanced outcomes across different age groups and degrees of correction.
All photos are shared with written patient consent, in strict adherence to AHPRA advertising guidelines. Viewing real patient results can help you visualise what is possible, although individual outcomes will vary based on anatomy, technique, and healing response.
Recovery After a Brow Lift
Recovery following a brow lift is highly individual but follows a general pathway. Patients receive detailed post-operative instructions from Dr. Gary Kode, with tailored advice to support safe, efficient healing.
First 7–10 Days
- Swelling and bruising are most noticeable during this period but generally manageable with cold compresses and elevation.
- Some tightness, numbness, or mild discomfort is expected but usually temporary.
- Sutures may be removed at 7–10 days if non-absorbable.
- Patients are advised to rest, avoid strenuous activity, and sleep with their head elevated.
2–4 Weeks
- Bruising typically fades and swelling continues to improve.
- Most individuals feel comfortable returning to work and light social activities within 10–14 days.
- Makeup can usually be applied to conceal any residual discolouration.
1–3 Months
- Scar maturation begins, and results become more defined.
- Numbness, if present, typically resolves gradually.
- The brow settles into its new position, creating a more open, alert appearance.
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.
Results of Brow Lift Surgery
The goal of a brow lift is to achieve natural facial rejuvenation—not dramatic alteration. Outcomes typically include:
- A subtly elevated brow that restores a more youthful and relaxed expression.
- Smoother forehead skin and reduced creases across the upper third of the face.
- Improved symmetry and contouring of the brow area.
- Enhanced appearance of the upper eyelids by reducing sagging caused by a low brow.
Results become increasingly visible as swelling resolves. Most patients enjoy the final outcome at around 2–3 months post-surgery. When performed with careful planning and technique, results are long-lasting and designed to age gracefully.
Scars with Brow Lift Surgery
Scar visibility depends on the chosen technique and individual healing characteristics. However, Dr. Gary Kode takes every precaution to ensure scars are minimal and well concealed:
- Endoscopic techniques result in small incisions hidden in the scalp, often undetectable once healed.
- Coronal brow lift scars are placed within the hair-bearing scalp and fade well over time with proper care.
- Pre-trichal scars, while located along the hairline, are designed to follow the natural transition between skin and hair, becoming discreet as they mature.
Post-operative protocols may include dressing the incisions with Hypafix and advising on silicone therapy or scar management strategies if required. Dr. Kode monitors healing closely during follow-up appointments and adjusts recommendations as needed.
Cost of Brow Lift Surgery
The cost of brow lift surgery varies according to several factors and must 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.
Risks of Brow Lift Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, brow lift surgery carries inherent risks. These are uncommon in experienced hands but should be considered carefully:
- Bruising and swelling, especially in the early stages of healing.
- Numbness or tingling, typically temporary, but may persist for a few months.
- Asymmetry, which may require adjustment or revision in rare cases.
- Scarring, which is minimised with appropriate technique and post-op care.
- Hair thinning along incision lines, particularly with coronal or pre-trichal approaches.
- Delayed healing or infection, which are rare but possible with any incision-based surgery.
Dr. Gary Kode practices with meticulous technique and careful patient selection to reduce risk. He offers open communication about potential outcomes and supports early intervention if complications arise.
FAQs About Brow Lift
About Dr. Gary Kode
Dr. Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon with a long-standing career in facial and body surgery. He has a particular focus on facial rejuvenation procedures, including brow lift, facelift, and neck lift surgery.
His practice is based in Melbourne, where he is known for his:
- Personal surgical approach – every operation is performed solely by him, ensuring attention to detail.
- Commitment to natural outcomes – aiming to refresh appearance without altering identity.
- Ethical and evidence-based practice – aligned with the highest standards of medical care and professional integrity.
Dr. Kode operates at accredited hospitals, provides in-depth consultations, and is committed to ongoing patient support throughout the surgical journey.
If you’re considering brow lift surgery in Melbourne, Dr. Gary Kode can guide you through a personalised, evidence-informed process.
To book a consultation, visit www.mrgarykode.com.au and start your journey toward a refreshed, natural appearance.