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Sinus Lift Surgery

Duration of Procedure

1-2 hours

Type of Anesthesia

Local anesthesia

Length of Stay

Same day

Duration of Procedure

1-2 hours

Type of Anesthesia

Local anesthesia

Length of Stay

Same day

Sinus Lift Surgery for Increased Bone Volume

When there is tooth loss in the posterior region of the upper jaw, the jawbone may resorb over time. Additionally, the sinus cavities may sag downward. Sinus lift surgery is a surgical procedure that increases bone height in the posterior region of the upper jaw. The sinus floor is elevated, and a bone graft is placed. This creates sufficient bone support for the implant.

Overview

  • Purpose: To increase bone volume and provide the necessary vertical height for an implant.
  • Logic: Gently elevating the floor of the sinus cavity and placing a bone graft.
  • Procedure: The sinus membrane is accessed, gently elevated, and the area is filled with graft material.
  • Suitability: Required for patients with low upper jaw bone volume before implants.
  • Recovery: The graft integrates with the bone over time, promoting new bone formation.
  • Effect: A strong, healthy bone foundation is established, allowing the implant to remain stable.

Candidate Profile and Limitations of Sinus Lift Surgery

The procedure is performed on patients who lack sufficient bone height in the upper jaw for an implant. It is particularly preferred in cases of posterior bone loss. This procedure is planned to enable implant treatment. Suitable candidates for sinus lift surgery in Turkey include:

  • In patients with upper jaw bone thickness below 4-5 mm, there is insufficient space for an implant. In this case, elevating the sinus floor is necessary to provide sufficient anchorage (1).
  • Over many years after a tooth extraction, the jawbone resorbs significantly. The sinus cavities that follow this resorption sag downward. This eliminates the necessary volume for an implant.
  • In some cases, sinus cavities are genetically very wide. In structures not permitting implants, a new bone bed is created.
  • In individuals with severe bone loss from gum disease, support weakens. A bone graft procedure is essential to restore the lost tissue.

Although highly successful for increasing bone volume, it may not suit all patients immediately. During initial examinations at Diş 212 clinics, the following conditions are particularly risky:

  • Active sinus infection: The procedure should be postponed in patients with chronic or acute sinusitis. Surgery during infection can cause rejection of the bone graft.
  • Heavy smokers: Smoking slows blood circulation in the mouth and significantly impairs healing. The risk of the bone graft failing to take is quite high in heavy smokers.
  • Chronic diseases: It isn’t suitable for those with uncontrolled diabetes or immune system disorders. These conditions can halt bone healing after surgery.
  • Cancer treatment: Risk is high, especially in patients with jaw radiation or bone metabolism medications.
  • Anatomical obstacles: If there are polyps or cysts within the sinus, these must be treated first.

Sinus Lift Surgery from Planning to Placement

This is a delicate surgical procedure that requires careful planning. At Diş 212 clinics, this procedure is performed using two primary methods. These depend on sinus anatomy and bone volume:

  • Open sinus lift

This method is the most comprehensive technique preferred when the existing bone height is very low (1-4 mm). A small surgical window is created in the gum tissue to access the jawbone. The sinus membrane is gently separated from the bone using specialized instruments and lifted upward (2).

High-quality bone graft material is densely packed into the space created by lifting the membrane. The area is covered with a protective membrane. The site is closed with sutures to initiate bone healing.

  • Closed sinus lift

Performed when bone height is minimal (5-7 mm) and only slight volume is needed. The socket where the implant will be placed is prepared using the standard procedure. At the socket end, the sinus floor is gently fractured or lifted (3).

Bone graft material is then introduced through this channel. The main advantage is that it allows implant placement in the same session.

sinus-lifting-surgery-work
This illustration uses 3D educational visuals to explain the main stages of Sinus Lift Surgery. It does not show actual surgical or clinical photographs.
This illustration uses 3D educational visuals to explain the main stages of Sinus Lift Surgery. It does not show actual surgical or clinical photographs.

Post-Operative Course and Expected Milestones

The recovery process proceeds in a controlled and gradual manner. The goal at this stage is for the placed bone graft to integrate with the jawbone. During this process, both soft tissue and bone tissue heal together. Sinus lift surgery in Turkey proceeds safely with regular follow-up:

  • Mild pain, swelling, and sensitivity may be present for the first few days. These symptoms typically subside quickly. Applying cold compresses and taking medication can help alleviate discomfort.
  • Gum healing begins during the first week. The area may remain sensitive. Soft and warm foods should be preferred. Oral hygiene must be maintained carefully.
  • You may experience a sensation of fullness in the nose and sinuses. Sneezing, blowing your nose, and activities that create pressure should be avoided.
  • The placed bone material gradually fuses with the surrounding bone. This process progresses slowly and under control. New bone formation typically takes 3 to 6 months. During this time, the area around the implant strengthens.
  • Patients can return to their normal lives within a few days. However, strenuous exercise and strenuous activities should be avoided.
  • Once the bone has reached the required level, the implant placement stage begins.

Identifying Risk Factors and Potential Complications

Sinus lift surgery in Turkey is a controlled procedure. However, there is a possibility of certain complications. Most of these risks are preventable. Following the dentist’s advice and regular check-ups ensure a smooth process. Here are the general risks that may arise:

  • Tear in the sinus membrane: The membrane may be damaged during the procedure. This condition is usually repairable, and treatment can continue.
  • Development of infection: The risk of infection increases if oral hygiene is inadequate. It can be controlled with early intervention.
  • Swelling and bruising: These may occur temporarily after the procedure. They usually subside within a few days.
  • Bleeding: Mild bleeding is normal. Rarely, it may persist longer and require monitoring.
  • Graft failure: The implanted bone material may sometimes fail to integrate adequately. In such cases, additional procedures may be necessary.
  • Sinus complications: Pressure, fullness, or tenderness may occur in the sinus area. These are usually temporary.
  • Fluid drainage through the nose: In very rare cases, if a connection forms between the sinus and mouth, fluid may drain. This condition requires treatment.
  • Delayed healing: Smoking or systemic diseases can delay healing.

Life After Sinus Lift Surgery and Expected Results

The primary goal after treatment is to establish sufficient bone height for the implant. The placed bone graft integrates with the jawbone over time. This process can take several months, and new bone formation occurs gradually. Once complete, a stronger and more stable implant foundation is established.

In the first few days, mild pain, swelling, and sinus fullness may occur. These symptoms typically subside quickly. As healing progresses, the area becomes more stable. Once bone reaches the required level, implant treatment proceeds smoothly and continues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sinus lift surgery is a procedure in which the sinus floor is elevated to increase bone height in the upper jaw.

It is performed when there is insufficient bone for the implant. It creates a stronger and more stable foundation.

No. It is performed under anesthesia. Any mild discomfort that occurs after the procedure can be easily relieved with pain relievers.

Soft tissue recovery is complete in 1-2 weeks. However, it takes 4-6 months for the graft to reach implant-ready firmness.

If the existing bone is 4-5 mm thick, the procedure is performed simultaneously. However, if the bone is very thin, implants are placed 6 months after the procedure.

Risks such as sinus membrane perforation or infection do exist. Also, with experienced specialists and digital planning, these risks are quite low.

Medically reviewed by
Dt. Aykut Koşun, MSc

He has been working at Diş 212 Clinics since 2011 and is a founding partner. Implant applications; Implant prostheses, aesthetic applications and smile design are his areas of special interest. He speaks advanced English. He is a member of Turkish Dentists Association (TDP), Aesthetic Dentistry Academy Association (EDAD), Kalkedon Dentistry Workshop.

Medically reviewed by
Dt. Aykut Koşun, MSc

Published
April 30, 2026

Last medically reviewed on
July 4, 2026

Dt. Aykut Koşun, MSc

Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry

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