Sinus Lift

A sinus lift (maxillary sinus floor elevation) is a surgical procedure that increases the height of available bone in the upper back jaw by lifting the floor of the maxillary sinus and placing bone graft material into the space created.

Why it is needed

When upper back teeth (premolars and molars) are lost, two things happen simultaneously: the jawbone resorbs downward, and the sinus floor drops. This can leave very little bone height — sometimes less than 4–5mm — which is insufficient for standard-length implants.

Lateral window technique (open sinus lift)

Used for larger bone volume requirements (typically where less than 5mm of bone exists). A small window is created through the outer wall of the sinus, the membrane lining the sinus floor is carefully elevated, and graft material is placed beneath it. Healing time: 4–6 months before implant placement.

Crestal technique (closed sinus lift)

Used for smaller lifts of 2–4mm where at least 5–6mm of bone already exists. The sinus floor is gently elevated through the implant site using specialised instruments. Often combined with implant placement on the same day.

Risks

The most significant risk is perforation of the sinus membrane. In experienced hands this occurs in approximately 10–20% of lateral lifts and can usually be repaired during surgery. Post-operative care includes avoiding nose-blowing and sneezing with open mouth.