When a patient with tooth loss in the upper jaw doesn't undergo implant surgery on time, bone thinning begins to form in the area and the sinuses filled with air are pulled downwards. As a result, there is not enough bone to hold an implant in the jaw, and it becomes impossible to perform the surgery. For this reason, a sinus lift procedure is performed under local anesthesia and with the help of a maxifolian surgeon. This creates enough bone for the implant operation.

Sinus lift operation makes it possible for a patient to have dental implants even when there is not enough bone in the upper jaw.

sinus lift
sinus lift

What Is A Sinus Lift?

On either side of the nose, above the molars and premolars, there are air-filled cavities called sinuses. These cavities help to reduce the weight of our head and ensure that the sounds come out correctly. Sinuses greatly affect the implant treatments to be performed in the upper jaw (maxilla) region.

Implant treatment is needed to replace the missing tooth in the healthiest way possible. When implant treatment is delayed, bone loss may occur in the upper jaw. As a result, the sinuses begin to descend towards the jaw, the area to place the implant narrows and it becomes difficult to perform the surgery. Sinus lifting is the process of lifting the sinuses descending towards the jaw. As a result of this procedure, an implant is placed in the jaw and the tooth deficiency is eliminated.

Sinus Lift Procedure

A sinus lift operation is performed under local anesthesia. Before starting the operation, you will be asked to have a tomography. Thus, the existing bone height and width are measured. In addition, your sinuses are evaluated and the most appropriate treatment method is decided.

During the operation, an incision is made along the gum in the area where the sinus lift will be applied and the bone is reached. Then, a small "window" is opened in the jawbone to reveal the sinus area. The sinus membrane covering the sinus is raised. After that, the bone powder is added (grafting) to the cavity formed as a result of this procedure. Finally, the gum tissue is closed with sutures.

You can read: All On 4 Dental Implants

Types of Sınus Lift

There 2 main techniques when performing sinus lift surgery: Open Sinus Lift Surgery and Closed Sinus Lift Surgery.

  • Open Sinus Lift Surgery: Also known as a lateral window technique, it is the most frequently used sinus lifting technique by dentists. In this operation, which is performed under local anesthesia in 30-45 minutes, an incision is made in the area where sinus lifting will be performed and a ''window'' is opened in the resulting bone. The sinus membrane filling the sinus is raised and bone powder is added to the cavity. The area is then sutured. Dental implants are placed 4-9 months later so that the bone graft can mesh with the bone that has already been there. This operation technique is applied to patients with a bone height of 3-4 mm or less.
  • Closed Sinus Lift Surgery: Also known as the osteotome (vertical) technique, it is applied to patients with a bone height of 5 mm or more. The sinus is elevated using special instruments without damaging the sinus membrane. Then, the cavity is filled with bone powder. The main purpose of this surgery is to place the implant in the jaw in the most harmless and fastest way.

Sinus Lift Post-Operative Instructions

sinüs lifting
sinus lifting

Although sinus lift surgery is not difficult, it is an operation that requires caution afterward. Please follow the instructions that are given by your dentist to recover fast;

  • Bleeding may occur in the mouth after the operation. Continue to bite the tampon provided to you for 30 minutes. The tampon will stop the bleeding as soon as possible.
  • Take care not to eat or drink for at least 2 hours after the procedure. You may involuntarily bite your lips and cheeks due to local anesthesia.
  • You can minimize the swelling and bruises that may occur by applying ice to the upper jaw at regular intervals.
  • Use the painkillers and antibiotics prescribed by your doctor regularly. Antibiotic treatment is extremely important to prevent infection in the surgical area.
  • Do not blow your nose violently, sneeze, spit or rinse your mouth after the operation.
  • Do not consume hot food and drink for the first 2 days. Do not use a straw when drinking something. As it will increase the pressure in the mouth, it may cause bleeding again.
  • Do not take a shower on the first day after the operation.
  • Do not smoke.
  • Do not swim, dive, do sports, or travel by plane for the first 1 week after the operation. Avoid activities that cause pressure on the body.
  • If you have removable dentures, take care not to use them for at least 2 weeks after surgery.

Sutures are removed on the 10th day after the sinus lifting operation. During this period, strictly follow the instructions given by your physician.

You can take a look at: German Dental Implant Brands

Contradictions

As with any surgical procedure, sinus lift surgery is not suitable for every patient.

  • Cancer
  • Acute sinusitis
  • Diabetes
  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Systemic diseases
  • Autoimmune diseases

Potential Risks of Sinus Lift

sinüs kaldırma ameliyatı
sinus lift

In surgical operations, the skill and experience of the doctor who will perform the procedure is extremely important. The risks of sinus lift surgery are greatly reduced when it is performed by an experienced surgeon.

The most common risks during sinus lift operation are as follows;

  • The most likely complication is perforation or rupture of the membrane. In this case, the surgeon tries to repair the sinus tear. If the membrane repair fails, the operation is canceled. At least 1.5 months is needed for the area to heal. After this period, the operation can be performed again.
  • Inflammation may occur after the operation. For this reason, you should use the medications prescribed by your physician regularly.

You can contact us for a more detailed treatment plan and pricing.

FAQ

Why do people need a sinus lift?

A sinus lift operation is performed if there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw or if the air-filled sinuses on the sides of the nose are too close to the jawbone to prevent the placement of the implant.

Can you get an implant after a sinus lift?

After a sinus lift operation, a patient needs to wait between 4 to 9 months so that the area can heal and the implant can fuse with the bone properly.

How long does swelling last after a sinus lift?

During the sinus lift procedure, swelling and bruising may occur in the area as a result of trauma. This is normal and resolves in 2 to 3 days.

Is a sinus lift risky?

As long as you consult a specialist, a sinus lift operation is not risky. After examining you, your doctor will decide on the most appropriate treatment method and inform you.