Sinus Lift
Bone grafting to help create adequate bone for dental implant placement in the upper back jaw/molar region when additional bone height is needed.
Why might a sinus lift be recommended?
The maxillary sinuses are located above the upper back teeth. When there is not enough bone between the mouth and the sinus for an implant, a sinus lift may be used to add bone and create a more suitable foundation for implant placement.
Some patients naturally have less bone between the upper jaw and the maxillary sinus where an implant is planned. Often upper teeth naturally extend into the sinus.
Bone can shrink after upper back teeth are removed, leaving less bone available for future implant placement.
After upper back teeth are lost, the sinus may extend farther into the area where the tooth roots were previously located.
Adding bone beneath the sinus may provide the additional space and support needed for predictable implant placement.
What to expect before sinus lift surgery.
Your consultation allows us to evaluate the planned implant site, review your health and imaging, and determine whether sinus grafting is needed as part of your implant treatment.
Review your health
We review your medical history, medications, allergies, and other factors that may affect surgery or healing. Any history of sinus issues, sinus surgery, or sinus infections is also relevant to your evaluation.
Evaluate the area
Dr. Siew evaluates the upper jaw, surrounding teeth and gums, and the area where implant treatment is being considered.
Review the anatomy
Appropriate imaging helps assess the available bone and the position of the maxillary sinus for surgical planning.
Discuss the treatment plan
We review the grafting approach, timing of implant placement, anesthesia options, expected healing, and important risks.
Anesthesia options for your comfort and safety.
The appropriate option depends on your procedure, health history, preferences, and other clinical considerations.
Local anesthesia
Local anesthetic numbs the surgical area while you remain awake during the procedure.
IV sedation
IV sedation can help reduce anxiety and awareness and improve comfort during your procedure. The appropriate level of sedation is individualized for each patient.
General anesthesia
General anesthesia may be considered for selected patients and procedures when clinically appropriate.
Creating bone for an upper-jaw implant.
A sinus lift adds bone beneath the maxillary sinus to help create enough bone for dental implant placement. The exact approach and timing depend on your anatomy and the amount of existing bone.
Access the grafting area
The area beneath the maxillary sinus is carefully visualized through the upper jaw.
Create space for the graft
The sinus membrane is carefully elevated to create space for bone graft material.
Add bone graft material
Bone graft material is placed beneath the sinus membrane to increase the amount of bone available for implant treatment.
Plan implant placement
Depending on the available bone and surgical conditions, the implant may be placed at the same visit or after the graft has healed.
What to expect after sinus lift surgery.
Recovery varies depending on the extent of grafting and whether an implant was placed at the same time. We will provide postoperative instructions specific to your procedure.
Swelling & soreness
Some swelling, soreness, and temporary congestion or pressure in the sinus area can occur after surgery and generally improve as healing progresses.
Protecting the sinus
Avoid blowing your nose and follow the sinus precautions provided after surgery. If you need to sneeze, avoid holding it in and follow the instructions given by our team.
Diet & activity
Choose foods that are comfortable to eat and avoid activities that may place unnecessary pressure on the surgical area while it heals.
Healing & follow-up
Follow-up allows us to monitor healing of the graft and determine when the area is ready for the next stage of implant treatment.
Common questions about sinus lifts.
Can the dental implant be placed at the same time as the sinus lift?
Sometimes. If there is enough existing bone to support the implant, sinus grafting and implant placement may be performed during the same procedure. In other cases, the graft is allowed to heal before the implant is placed.
How long does a sinus graft take to heal?
Healing time varies depending on the amount of grafting performed, your anatomy, your health, and whether an implant was placed at the same time. Follow-up helps determine when the area is ready for the next stage of treatment.
What bone graft material is used for a sinus lift?
Several types of graft material may be used depending on the procedure and treatment plan. These can include donated human bone, animal-derived graft material, your own bone, or a combination of materials. Dr. Siew will discuss the material recommended for your treatment.
Will I feel pressure in my sinus after surgery?
Some temporary pressure, congestion, swelling, or fullness in the sinus area can occur after surgery. These symptoms generally improve as healing progresses.
Can I blow my nose after a sinus lift?
You will usually be asked to avoid blowing your nose for a period of time after surgery to protect the healing sinus area. We will provide specific sinus precautions based on your procedure.
What if I have sinus problems or allergies?
A history of sinus problems, allergies, congestion, or prior sinus treatment may be relevant to planning. Your ENT may need to be consulted. Let us know about any ongoing sinus symptoms or previous treatment so they can be considered before surgery.
What happens if the sinus membrane is perforated?
The sinus membrane is thin and can sometimes tear during surgery. Small perforations can often be managed during the procedure. In some situations, the treatment plan may need to be modified or staged to allow appropriate healing.
Will I be asleep for sinus lift surgery?
Not necessarily. Anesthesia options may include local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia depending on your procedure, health history, preferences, and other clinical considerations.
Understanding the risks of sinus lift surgery.
Sinus lift surgery is a common grafting procedure, but all surgery involves potential risks. These vary depending on your anatomy, sinus health, the amount of grafting needed, your medical history, and whether implant placement is performed at the same time.
Potential complications can include pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, delayed healing, loss or exposure of graft material, sinus congestion or infection, or a perforation of the sinus membrane. In some situations, the treatment plan may need to be modified or staged to allow appropriate healing.
Your individual anatomy, sinus health, treatment options, and risks will be reviewed with you before surgery so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Have questions about sinus lift surgery?
Contact our team to request an appointment and discuss whether an evaluation may be appropriate for you.