Sinus Lift Surgery
The maxillary sinuses are air-filled spaces located behind the cheeks and above upper teeth. Natural tooth roots often extend into these sinuses. When upper teeth are removed, a thin bone wall typically separates the sinus from the mouth. Since dental implants require bone for anchoring, this thin wall makes implant placement impossible. Successful dental implants depend on adequate jawbone quality and quantity. When bone loss occurs from injury or disease, sinus augmentation (sinus lift) raises the sinus floor to allow new bone formation.
Am I A Candidate For A Sinus Lift Procedure?
You may be a candidate for a sinus lift procedure if you:
- Are missing multiple back teeth
- Have significant back jaw bone loss
- Have missing teeth from birth conditions
- Are missing most upper teeth but need implant support
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need a sinus lift before getting implants?
A sinus lift is needed when there is insufficient bone height in the upper jaw to securely place dental implants. This often occurs because the maxillary sinuses are too close to the jaw, or because bone loss has occurred after tooth extraction. The procedure adds bone volume so implants have a stable foundation.
How long does it take to recover from a sinus lift?
Most patients recover from a sinus lift within 7–10 days for the initial healing. The bone graft material takes 4–9 months to fully integrate and create enough solid bone for implant placement. During this time, it is important to avoid blowing your nose forcefully, smoking, or any activity that increases sinus pressure.
Is a sinus lift painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so discomfort during surgery is minimal. Post-operative soreness, swelling, and some nasal congestion are normal and typically resolve within 1–2 weeks. Dr. Lee will prescribe appropriate pain management and antibiotics to ensure a smooth recovery.
What materials are used in a sinus lift?
The bone grafting material used in a sinus lift can be your own bone (autograft), donor bone (allograft), bovine-derived bone (xenograft), or a synthetic substitute. Dr. Lee will recommend the best option based on your anatomy, health history, and the volume of bone needed.
Can implants be placed at the same time as a sinus lift?
In some cases with sufficient existing bone, Dr. Lee can place implants simultaneously during the sinus lift, reducing overall treatment time. When bone height is very limited, a staged approach is preferred — allowing the graft to fully mature before implant surgery. Your 3D imaging results will guide this decision.
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