Implant Surgery
Sinus Elevation (Sinus Lift)
The sinuses are air-filled spaces above the upper back teeth. When those teeth are lost, the bone shrinks and the sinus can expand downward, leaving too little bone to hold an implant. A sinus elevation gently lifts the sinus membrane and adds bone graft in the space beneath it.
The result is a restored ridge of bone that can support implants in the upper back jaw — an area that is otherwise one of the hardest in which to place them.
Who it's for
- Planned implants in the upper back jaw with insufficient bone height
- Long-standing missing upper molars or premolars
- Bone loss from periodontal disease in the upper jaw
- A pneumatized (enlarged) sinus crowding the available bone
What to expect
- 1
Imaging & assessment
CBCT imaging shows the exact sinus anatomy and how much bone needs to be rebuilt.
- 2
The procedure
Through a small access, the sinus membrane is lifted and graft material is placed. Internal (osteotome) or lateral-window techniques are chosen to fit the case.
- 3
Bone maturation
The graft matures into solid bone over several months, creating room for stable implants.
- 4
Implant placement
Implants are placed once the new bone is ready — sometimes at the same time as the lift when enough native bone remains.
Recovery & aftercare
Expect mild swelling and, occasionally, minor nasal congestion or light bleeding for a few days. You'll be asked to avoid blowing your nose forcefully and to skip activities that raise sinus pressure for a short period.
Most patients manage comfortably with over-the-counter pain relief and the prescribed aftercare instructions.
Common questions
- Is a sinus lift dangerous?
- It is a well-established procedure that is safe and effective in experienced hands. As with any surgery it carries some risks — most commonly a small tear in the sinus membrane, or a sinus infection — which careful 3D planning and a gentle technique help reduce.
- Can the implant go in at the same time?
- Sometimes. If enough of your own bone remains to stabilize the implant, the lift and placement can be combined; otherwise the graft heals first.
- How long before implants can be placed?
- When the graft heals on its own first, implant placement typically follows after several months of bone maturation.
Talk to a specialist about sinus elevation (sinus lift)
Whether you're a patient considering treatment or a dentist referring a case, we'll evaluate, plan, and coordinate care from diagnosis through follow-up.
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should always be determined by a qualified dental professional based on your individual condition.