Sinus Lift

A sinus lift is a surgical technique used to increase bone volume in the upper back jaw (the maxilla) by gently elevating the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material beneath it. It is most commonly recommended when the natural bone height is too low to securely place dental implants, which can occur after tooth loss, periodontal disease, or long-term denture wear; the aim is to create a stable foundation for implants by augmenting the bone in the area under the sinus.

The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia with or without sedation and involves accessing the sinus through a small opening in the gum above the premolars or molars, lifting the membrane, and inserting graft material that may be autogenous, donor, or synthetic. Recovery usually involves mild swelling and discomfort for a few days, with a healing period of several months to allow the graft to integrate and form new bone; potential risks include infection, sinus membrane perforation, and graft failure, and your dentist or surgeon will discuss alternatives such as short implants or bone onlays if a sinus lift is not suitable.