What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that increases bone height in the upper jaw by elevating the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material beneath it.

It is performed when:

• Bone height in the upper molar region is insufficient

• The maxillary sinus has expanded downward

• Long-term tooth loss has caused bone resorption

The goal is to create adequate bone volume to securely place dental implants.

Why Is Sinus Lifting Necessary?

After tooth loss:

• Bone begins to shrink (resorption)

• The sinus cavity expands (pneumatization)

• Implant placement becomes difficult or impossible

Without sufficient bone support, implants cannot achieve stability.

At TokayDent, sinus lifting allows patients who were previously told they are not suitable for implants to receive successful implant treatment.

Types of Sinus Lift Procedures

1. Open Sinus Lift (Lateral Window Technique)

• Used when bone height is severely limited

• Small window opened in side of jaw

• Sinus membrane gently lifted

• Bone graft placed

• Healing time: 4–6 months before implant placement

2. Closed Sinus Lift (Osteotome Technique)

• Used when moderate bone height exists

• Less invasive

• Sinus lifted through implant site

• Implant may be placed simultaneously

At TokayDent, the choice depends on:

• Existing bone height

• Bone density

• Treatment plan

• Implant stability requirements

Who Needs a Sinus Lift?

Sinus lifting may be necessary for patients who:

• Lost upper molars years ago

• Have advanced bone loss

• Have thin posterior maxillary bone

• Want dental implants but lack bone support

A 3D CBCT scan at TokayDent determines eligibility.

Sinus Lift Procedure at TokayDent

Step 1: Diagnosis & Planning

• CBCT imaging

• Bone height measurement

• Sinus anatomy evaluation

Step 2: Local Anesthesia

• Ensures comfortable procedure

Step 3: Surgical Access

• Small incision made in gum

• Access to maxillary sinus created

Step 4: Sinus Membrane Elevation

• Membrane carefully lifted

• Space created for graft

Step 5: Bone Graft Placement

• Autogenous bone

• Allograft

• Xenograft

• Synthetic graft materials

Step 6: Healing Period

• Bone integrates over several months

Step 7: Implant Placement

• After sufficient bone formation

Is Sinus Lift Painful?

Most patients report:

• Mild swelling

• Minimal discomfort

• Temporary sinus pressure

Procedure is performed under local anesthesia.

Recovery is usually manageable with prescribed medication.

How Long Does Healing Take?

Healing period depends on:

• Type of sinus lift

• Patient’s healing capacity

• Bone graft material

Average healing time:

• 4–6 months before implant placement

Risks and Complications

When performed by experienced surgeons at TokayDent, complications are rare.

Possible risks include:

• Sinus membrane perforation

• Infection

• Swelling

• Temporary sinus congestion

Advanced surgical protocols minimize risks.

Success Rate of Sinus Lift

Sinus lift procedures have a high success rate — often above 90–95% when performed properly.

Success depends on:

• Proper surgical technique

• Patient health

• Post-operative care

• Smoking habits

Advantages of Sinus Lift

• Enables dental implant placement

• Restores lost bone volume

• Improves implant stability

• Expands treatment options

• Long-term functional restoration

Aftercare Instructions

After sinus lifting:

• Avoid blowing nose

• Avoid sneezing with mouth closed

• Avoid smoking

• Avoid heavy physical activity

• Follow prescribed medication

Healing should be monitored regularly.

Sinus Lift vs Bone Grafting

Sinus lift:

• Specific to upper jaw sinus area

Bone graft:

• Can be applied anywhere in jaw

Often, both procedures are combined.

Why Choose TokayDent for Sinus Lift in Turkey?

• Advanced 3D CBCT imaging

• Experienced implant surgeons

• High-quality graft materials

• Modern surgical protocols

• Sterile clinical environment

• International patient coordination

At TokayDent, we create a strong foundation before placing dental implants — ensuring long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is sinus lift safe?

Yes, when performed by experienced professionals.

2. Can implants be placed at the same time?

Sometimes, depending on bone height.

3. How long does the surgery take?

Usually 60–90 minutes.

4. Will I feel sinus pain?

Mild pressure may occur temporarily.

5. What is the success rate?

Above 90% in most cases.

6. Is hospitalization required?

No, it is an outpatient procedure.

7. Can smokers undergo sinus lift?

Yes, but smoking reduces success rate.

8. When can I return to work?

Usually within a few days.

9. What happens if I do not get a sinus lift?

Implants may not be possible in the upper jaw.

10. Why choose TokayDent?

Because we combine advanced imaging, surgical precision, and implant expertise to deliver safe and predictable sinus augmentation procedures.