An interview and story by blogger – Brooklyn Staughton
The Gentle Precision of Dr Simon Braham: Inside the Life of a Paediatric ENT Surgeon Shaping the Future of Care
It’s just after 6 a.m. in South Melbourne. The sun is brushing the rooftops of terrace houses, the lake is still, and the early rhythm of spinning wheels echoes along nearby Beaconsfield Parade. Among the lycra-clad cyclists powering through their weekend loop is Dr Simon Braham — ENT surgeon, father of two, musical theatre devotee, and firm believer that recovery should be as gentle as the surgery itself.
“Cycling clears the mind” he says, coasting toward his favourite local café after a training ride. “It’s also a great time to reflect on what could be done better — in surgery, in patient care, even in the system.”
That mindset — focused, reflective, and quietly determined — is at the heart of Dr Braham’s work as one of Melbourne’s leading pediatric ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) surgeons for children. His patients range from toddlers struggling with breathing issues to school-aged children requiring tonsil or adenoid surgery, or more complex ear or airway procedures.
But what defines his approach is not just technical skill — it’s a deep commitment to innovation, empathy, and the small, meaningful details that make surgery safer and recovery smoother for young patients and their families.
“I’m always asking: how can we reduce pain, how can we minimise time in hospital /make the hospital experience as smooth and least traumatic as possible and how can we get kids back to being kids, faster?”
Crafting a Surgical Career with Heart
Dr Braham’s path into medicine was driven by a fascination with anatomy and a desire to work with children. After completing his medical training in Melbourne, he undertook extensive surgical training across Victoria, followed by advanced Fellowships in ENT surgery with a focus on paediatric care.
His early mentors quickly noted his calm demeanour, precise hands, and ability to explain complex procedures in ways that reassured both anxious parents and curious five-year-olds.
“Kids are incredibly resilient — but their bodies respond differently to surgery than adults. It takes a specific mindset and a lot of trust from families,” he says. “That trust is something I never take lightly.”
Today, Dr Braham’s private practice at Melbourne ENT in East st kilda complements his work at several major hospitals. While he sees patients of all ages, paediatric ENT remains his central focus — and he’s developed a reputation for delivering exceptional outcomes with a gentle, collaborative style.
“I don’t believe in rushing decisions. Surgery is a big step for any family, and I want parents to feel fully informed, not overwhelmed,” he says.
Minimising Pain, Maximising Recovery
A father himself — he and his partner live in Albert Park with their two young children — Dr Braham knows firsthand the emotional stakes when a child is unwell. That empathy drives his dedication to minimally invasive techniques and evidence-based innovations designed to reduce discomfort and shorten downtime.
From day surgery techniques that minimise the need for overnight stays, to the use of dissolvable sutures, careful anaesthesia planning, and less traumatic instrumentation, he is constantly adapting his approach to offer gentler options. He’s particularly passionate about refining tonsil and adenoid surgery, one of the most common procedures in paediatric ENT.
“There’s been a real shift in how we think about tonsillectomies. The goal isn’t just to remove tissue — it’s to do it in a way that preserves function, reduces bleeding risk, and allows faster return to school and meals,” he explains. The CoAblation tonsillectomy achieves all of this
Dr Braham and his team also integrate post-operative care protocols that support comfort — from pain control strategies tailored to children, to recovery tips that empower parents – The result: less fear, less distress, and a more positive experience for families.
“Children might not remember every detail of their surgery — but they’ll remember how it made them feel. That matters.”
Life in Balance: Musicals, Family and Food
Ask Dr Braham about his surgical interests and he’ll answer with precision. Ask him about musicals and music festivals, and his face lights up with the same enthusiasm you’d expect from someone waiting for curtain call.
“I grew up surrounded by music and performance — it’s always been part of my identity,” he says. “There’s something about the structure of a great musical that mirrors surgery: timing, teamwork, choreography.”
He’s seen Les Misérables more times than he’ll admit and considers Hamilton a masterpiece of lyrical ingenuity. On nights off, he and his partner often catch a performance at the Arts Centre or settle into their home kitchen with a playlist of showtunes and a new recipe to explore.
“We’re both big on food,” he laughs. “Whether it’s pasta from scratch, a slow-cooked roast, or just finding the best Vietnamese in Richmond — food is how we decompress.”
Weekends in Albert Park are usually filled with bike rides with the kids, market trips, and coastal walks. He trains daily — cycling, strength sessions, and recovery runs — not out of vanity but because, as he puts it, “surgery demands stamina — physical and mental.” Dr Braham knows well the link between mental and physical strength
Innovation with Integrity
Within the operating theatre, Dr Braham is known for his focus, light touch, and openness to new technologies. He frequently trials new devices and surgical techniques — always with a cautious, evidence-driven lens.
“Not all innovation is useful. But when we find something that reduces trauma, reduces pain, shortens procedures, or improves recovery, it’s our responsibility to bring that into our practice.”
He’s part of several peer groups and collaborates closely with anaesthetists, speech therapists and paediatricians to ensure continuity of care — especially for children with complex needs, sleep apnoea or airway concerns.
His commitment to improving outcomes extends to his patient communication as well. Parents often leave his consults with clear, jargon-free explanations, visual guides, and a detailed understanding of next steps.
“Families should never feel rushed or confused. If we can reduce their anxiety, we improve the whole surgical experience.”
A Surgeon for the Whole Family
As he rides home along the bay, the city sparkling to the west and the scent of salt and eucalyptus in the air, Dr Braham reflects on the past two decades.
“I’ve had patients I saw as kids now bringing in their own children. That’s the kind of continuity that reminds you why you do this.”
He sees himself not just as a technician, but as a guide — someone families turn to during moments of vulnerability, uncertainty, and hope. The balance he strikes between innovation and empathy, structure and softness, has become his signature.
“My job is to remove obstacles — whether it’s sleep disruption, recurrent infections, or feeding difficulties — so kids can thrive. And for parents, it’s about trust. If they feel safe and supported, we’ve already done half the work.”
As theatre lights glow and another week of surgery begins, Dr Simon Braham stands ready — calm, precise, and quietly shaping the future of paediatric ENT care. Not just with his hands, but with his whole heart.
For more information about Dr Simon Braham visit www.melbourne-ent.com.au