Doctor applying gentle pressure on patient's under-eye/sinus area with thumbs.

Sinus Lift / Sinus Augmentation Surgery

At Leading Edge, sinus lift surgery can be performed by an oral surgeon or periodontist to add bone to your upper jaw. Sinus lift surgery or sinus augmentation may be necessary prior to dental implant placement. A consultation with a 3D x-ray is needed to determine if you need a sinus lift.

What is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift is surgery that adds bone to your upper jaw in the area of your molars and premolars. It’s sometimes called a sinus augmentation. The bone is added between your jaw and the maxillary sinuses, which are on either side of your nose. To make room for the bone, the sinus membrane has to be moved upward, or “lifted.”

When Do You Need a Sinus Lift?

If you can’t receive dental implants because you don’t have enough bone in the upper jaw or your sinuses are too close to the jaw, it may be recommended that you get a sinus lift. Are you wondering why you might have bone loss? Good question.

Some causes of bone loss include:

  • Periodontal gum disease
  • Losing teeth in your upper jaw
  • Reabsorption of bone into the body after tooth loss

How Is a Sinus Lift Surgery Done?

Some of the basic steps include the following:

  1. The surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue.

  2. The tissue is raised, exposing the bone underneath.

  3. A small circle in the bone is created.

  4. The surgeon lifts the bony piece into the sinus cavity space and fills the hole with a bone graft.

  5. The surgeon closes the incision.

  6. The healing process begins.

In about 4-12 months after your sinus lift surgery, you will be eligible for implant placement. This time in between gives the new bone time to merge correctly with your existing bone. The amount of time between your surgery and getting your implants placed depends on how much bone you needed.

Dr. Daniel Fleischman

Dr. Daniel Fleischman

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

“There are a couple of options for sinus lift surgery, including internal and external approaches. Depending on what is best for the patient, the chosen procedure can require a healing period before implant surgery, but in some cases the dental implant can be placed at the same time.”

Recovery from Sinus Lift Surgery

Your recovery time will depend on the type of sinus lift surgery you undergo. Other than avoidance of strenuous activities, most patients do not have any major limitations. You may experience some swelling around the surgical site and light bleeding from the nose or mouth. Most patients have little discomfort after their sinus lift procedure.

Your surgeon will prescribe medication, which may include:

  • Antibiotics and antimicrobial mouthwash: To prevent infection
  • Pain medicine: To alleviate any discomfort
  • Decongestants or saline spray: To keep nose clear and moist
  • Anti-inflammatories: To reduce swelling
  • Your oral surgeon or periodontist will provide detailed post-operative instructions after your sinus lift surgery.

Why Choose Leading Edge for Your Sinus Lift Surgery?

At Leading Edge, our skilled specialists utilize modern techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure precise, comfortable, and effective outcomes. With a commitment to personalized care, we tailor each treatment to meet your specific oral health needs, helping you achieve optimal results.

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