What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is a bone grafting procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw beneath the maxillary sinus. This area often lacks enough bone height due to natural anatomy, long-term tooth loss, or bone loss after extractions. The sinus membrane is gently lifted, and bone grafting material is placed to restore the bone volume needed to support dental implants.
Why a Sinus Lift May Be Needed
The upper back jaw sits close to the sinus cavity. When teeth are missing in this area, the bone can shrink over time, leaving too little support for implants. A sinus lift procedure creates the space and bone structure needed for secure implant placement.
This procedure may be recommended to:
- Increase bone height in the upper jaw for dental implants
- Restore bone lost after tooth extraction
- Address naturally shallow sinus anatomy
- Improve long-term implant stability
Did You Know?
The maxillary sinus can change shape and position over time after upper tooth loss, which is one reason bone height in the upper jaw may decrease.
Sinus Lift Surgery Process
Sinus lift surgery follows a careful, step-by-step approach designed to protect the sinus while rebuilding bone.
- Access to the sinus area: A small opening is created in the upper jaw bone near the implant site.
- Sinus membrane elevation: The sinus membrane is gently lifted upward.
- Bone graft placement: Bone graft material is placed into the newly created space to increase bone volume. In appropriate cases, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) may be added to support natural healing using the patient’s own blood components.
- Healing phase: The graft integrates with the existing bone over time, creating a stable foundation.
In some cases, dental implants are placed at the same time as the sinus lift. In others, implant placement occurs after healing is complete.
Recovery and Healing
Most patients experience mild swelling or pressure after sinus lift surgery, which improves within several days. Discomfort is typically manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
A sinus lift differs from a typical bone graft because strict precautions are required to protect the surgical site. Following post-operative instructions helps support proper healing and reduces the risk of surgical complications.
Healing time varies based on the amount of bone added and whether implants are placed during the same procedure. Bone integration usually takes several months, after which dental implants can be placed or restored.
Dental Insurance and Payment Options
Insurance coverage varies by plan and by patient. We are in-network with the majority of insurance providers to help estimate available benefits, but coverage verification does not guarantee payment. Treatment fees are reviewed during your consultation so you have a clear understanding of expected costs.
FAQs
Is sinus lift surgery painful?
The surgery itself is not painful because local anesthetic is used and sedation options are available to support comfort during the procedure. Most patients report mild discomfort that improves within a few days.
How long does sinus lift healing take?
Initial healing occurs within the first few weeks. Full bone integration typically takes several months before implants are placed or restored.
What happens if I don’t get a sinus lift when I need one?
Without enough bone support, dental implants may not remain stable. A sinus lift helps reduce the risk of implant failure by improving bone volume.
Does insurance pay for a sinus lift?
Insurance coverage for sinus lift surgery varies by plan and provider. Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the procedure when it is considered medically necessary for implant placement. Coverage is reviewed during your consultation so you have a clear understanding of potential benefits and out-of-pocket costs.
Is there an oral surgeon in North County San Diego that performs sinus lift surgery?
Offshore Oral & Facial Surgery provides sinus lift procedures at our San Marcos and Vista offices. Contact our team to schedule a consultation and learn whether a sinus lift is recommended as part of your treatment plan.