When the upper jaw lacks the bone height needed for an implant, the answer is usually a sinus lift — a routine procedure that builds a solid foundation for your new tooth. Here is what it involves, how long recovery takes, and who actually needs one.
At a glance
- What it is: a procedure that lifts the membrane of the maxillary sinus and places bone graft material beneath it
- Who needs it: patients missing bone height in the upper back-teeth region where an implant is planned
- Two techniques: internal (minor) and external (lateral) sinus lift — the choice depends on your 3D scan
- Anaesthesia: local; the procedure is painless
- Healing: new bone forms over 4–6 months; swelling subsides within days
- Cost: depends on the extent of the procedure; an estimate is given at your consultation
On this page
- What a sinus lift is
- When it is needed
- Two techniques
- The procedure
- Recovery
- Cost
- FAQ
What is a sinus lift?
The maxillary sinus is an air-filled cavity in the upper jaw, just above the roots of the back teeth. When upper back teeth are lost, the bone in that area gradually loses height and the sinus expands downward — often leaving too little „ground“ for an implant. A sinus lift raises the floor of the sinus and fills the space beneath its membrane with a material that your body converts into its own bone over the following months. It is a specialised form of bone augmentation designed for this exact region.
When is it needed?
Most often in patients who have been missing upper molars or premolars for a long time, after bone loss from infections or gum disease, and in people with a naturally „low“ sinus. Whether a sinus lift is needed — and which type — is shown by the 3D (CBCT) scan that is part of planning every dental implant.
Two techniques: internal and external
The internal (crestal) sinus lift is performed through the implant site itself: the membrane is raised a few millimetres, a small amount of graft material is added, and the implant is often placed in the same visit. The external (lateral) sinus lift uses a small window on the side of the jaw when several millimetres of bone are missing; implant placement is then usually delayed for 4–6 months while new bone forms.
What does the procedure look like?
After the 3D scan and planning, the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and is painless — you feel only pressure. The sinus membrane is carefully detached and lifted, the space is filled with graft material (most often a processed bone substitute), covered with a protective membrane, and the site is sutured. The procedure typically takes 45–90 minutes.
Recovery and healing
Swelling and a feeling of tightness are normal for the first two to three days and are managed with the medication you receive. In the first weeks you avoid forceful nose blowing and similar pressure — you receive detailed written instructions after the procedure. New bone forms over 4–6 months; after that the site is ready for the implant, with check-ups in between to monitor healing.
Cost
The cost depends on the technique (internal or external), the amount of material, and whether the implant is placed at the same time — so an estimate is given at your consultation, with the treatment plan. See our dental price list.
Frequently asked questions
Does a sinus lift hurt?
No — it is performed under local anaesthesia. Afterwards you can expect swelling and moderate discomfort, controlled with medication; the first two days are the most noticeable.
How long until the implant after a sinus lift?
With an internal sinus lift the implant is often placed immediately. With an external lift, you wait 4–6 months for new bone to form.
Is the procedure safe?
With 3D planning it is a routine procedure. The best-known complication is a tear of the sinus membrane, which is repaired during the procedure itself — your doctor will explain all risks in detail beforehand.
Can a sinus lift be avoided?
Sometimes — with smaller bone deficits there are alternatives (shorter implants, the internal approach). What is possible in your case is shown by the 3D scan.
References
- Pjetursson BE, Tan WC, Zwahlen M, Lang NP. A systematic review of the success of sinus floor elevation and survival of implants inserted in combination with sinus floor elevation. J Clin Periodontol 2008. PMID 18724852 (Part I) PMID 18724853 (Part II)
Book a consultation
If you have been told there is not enough bone for an implant in your upper jaw, a 3D scan shows exactly how much bone you have and whether you need a sinus lift. ESTERA, Bokeljska 7, Vračar, Belgrade — +381 66 378 372.
Book a consultation: +381 66 378 372
Content prepared and medically reviewed by Dr Nenad Stanković, DDS/DMD, specialist in cosmetology, international lecturer and trainer in aesthetic medicine.