Injured Brisbane Lions skipper Jonathan Brown has his eye on a return to the AFL field, and a juicy big steak.

Brown hopes to be back to bolster the beleaguered Lions in round nine on May 21.

Brisbane, who haven't won yet this season, will host North Melbourne for that match at the Gabba.

The 29-year-old underwent three hours of reconstructive facial surgery after a sickening collision with Fremantle defender Luke McPharlin at the Gabba in round one in late March.

His injuries were comparable to those suffered by a car crash victim, with eight breaks around his eye socket, jaw and cheekbone.

"I'm hoping to play round nine, there's still constant contact with the surgeon and I've got to wait for his all-clear but I'm hoping it's then," said Brown, who doesn't bear any scars.

"I'll maybe try and twist his arm to come back earlier but I don't know whether it's a negotiable injury this one."

Brown has shed four kilograms since the injury, still only able to eat soup and other soft foods.

"That's been a bit frustrating, hopefully I can get into a steak in a couple of weeks time," he said.

In Melbourne on Friday for an anniversary luncheon to celebrate the Lions' 2001 premiership, Brown will have his table napkin at the ready.

"I've lost a fair bit of feeling but I'm sure most of that will come back.

"It's been a little bit embarrassing a couple of times when I've had food sitting on my chin and I can't feel it, I have to make sure I keep wiping my mouth."

The key forward, who was part of Brisbane's three AFL premierships, said he felt in pretty good shape and was back in full training, apart from contact work.

"I really feel that physically I haven't lost a lot.

"That's the positive, I don't have to go through any rehab as such, when I'm right to run I'll be able to run around."

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