Saoji Dental Studio
Sinus Lifting Surgery
What is Sinus Lifting Surgery?
Sinus lifting surgery, also called a sinus augmentation, is a dental surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars, just below the maxillary sinus. The procedure lifts the sinus membrane upward to make space for bone grafting. It is typically done to prepare the jaw for dental implants when there is not enough bone height in the upper back jaw.
Why is Sinus Lifting Needed?
The upper jawbone in the molar region is naturally thinner than the lower jaw and may not have enough bone due to:
- Tooth Loss – Bone deteriorates over time after teeth are lost.
- Anatomy – The maxillary sinus is naturally close to the jaw in some people.
- Periodontal Disease – Can result in significant bone loss.
- Trauma or Surgical Procedures – That damage the jawbone.
- Preparation for Dental Implants – Implants need solid bone for support. If bone height is insufficient, sinus lift becomes necessary.
How is Sinus Lift Surgery Performed?
- Diagnosis & Planning
- X-rays or 3D CBCT scans are taken to evaluate bone levels and sinus anatomy.
- Anesthesia
- Local anesthesia is used. Sedation may be given for patient comfort.
- Surgical Steps:
- A small incision is made in the gum above the back teeth.
- The dentist or oral surgeon creates a window in the jawbone to access the sinus.
- The sinus membrane is gently lifted upward.
- Bone graft material is placed beneath the lifted membrane.
- The gum tissue is stitched back into place.
- Healing Time
- It takes around 4 to 9 months for the graft to integrate with your natural bone before placing implants.
Types of Bone Used for Grafting
- Autograft – Patient’s own bone.
- Allograft – Human donor bone.
- Xenograft – Animal bone (commonly bovine).
- Alloplast – Synthetic bone substitutes.
Aftercare Following Sinus Lift Surgery
Proper aftercare helps ensure healing and prevents complications:
- Pain and Swelling
- Mild discomfort is normal. Use prescribed painkillers and ice packs.
- Bleeding
- Slight bleeding or nasal discharge is common. Avoid spitting or rinsing vigorously.
- Avoid Sinus Pressure
- Do NOT blow your nose for at least a week.
- Sneeze with your mouth open to relieve sinus pressure.
- Avoid flying, scuba diving, or heavy lifting for a few weeks.
- Medications
- Take antibiotics, decongestants, and any other medications as prescribed.
- Oral Hygiene
- Do not brush or disturb the surgical site for the first day.
- Use gentle rinses or prescribed mouthwash starting after 24 hours.
- Diet
- Stick to soft, cool foods.
- Avoid hot, spicy, and hard foods for several days.
- Follow-Up
- Attend all follow-up visits to monitor healing and assess readiness for implant placement.
Potential Risks and Complications (Rare)
- Sinus membrane perforation
Cosmetic Surgery
