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Sinus lifting (sinus elevation) is a surgical procedure performed to increase bone volume before placing a dental implant in the upper jaw’s posterior region (maxillary sinus). The maxillary sinus is an air-filled cavity located on the sides of the nasal cavity. Bone volume in this area may decrease after tooth loss. The sinus lifting procedure allows for the creation of sufficient bone volume for the implant.

Why Is Sinus Lifting Performed?

Insufficient Bone Height: Bone height in the upper jaw’s posterior regions is usually limited. Volume may decrease due to bone resorption.
Sinus Boundaries Being Below: In some people, the sinus floor may be naturally low.
Tooth Loss: Bone volume may decrease due to tooth loss in the upper jaw. Sufficient bone volume should be created for implant placement.
Trauma or Cystic Lesions: Previous traumas or surgical procedures may lead to bone loss.

Closed Sinus Lifting

It is applied if the bone deficiency is mild. It can be done in the same session as implant placement.

How Is It Done?

The implant site is opened. The sinus floor is pushed upwards with special instruments. Graft material (bone powder) is added, and the implant is placed.

Advantages

It is less invasive.
Shorter recovery time.

Open Sinus Lifting

It is applied if the bone deficiency is severe. Bone volume is increased before implant placement.

How Is It Done?

Local anesthesia is applied. The gum is opened from the cheek area, and a window is created in the bone. The sinus membrane is carefully lifted upwards. Graft material (bone powder or artificial graft) is added to the sinus cavity. The area is closed and sutured.

Advantages

Provides more bone volume.
It is ideal for patients with advanced bone loss.

Bone Grafts Used

Autogenous Grafts: The patient’s own bone tissue.
Allografts: Human-derived donor bone grafts.
Xenografts: Animal-derived bone materials.
Synthetic Grafts: Artificial biomaterials.

Post-Operative Recovery Process

Slight bleeding and swelling are normal within the first 24 hours. Edema is reduced by applying a cold compress. Antibiotics and painkillers are prescribed. Nasal hygiene is important; movements that will create pressure (sneezing, vigorous nose cleaning) should be avoided. Stitches are removed within 7–10 days. Bone graft maturation may take 4–6 months. Implant placement is usually done after bone maturation.

Risks and Complications

Sinus Perforation (Tearing): A tear may occur in the sinus membrane. Small tears usually heal on their own.
Infection: Infection may develop in the surgical site.
Graft Material Compatibility Problem: The graft may fail, and reoperation may be required.
Swelling and Bleeding: Swelling and bleeding can be expected in the first few days.