The Sinus Lift Procedure

A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation or sinus elevation, is a surgical procedure performed to increase the bone volume in the upper jaw, specifically in the area of the molars and premolars. This procedure is often necessary when the bone in the upper jaw is insufficient to support dental implants.
Why Is a Sinus Lift Needed?
Several factors can lead to insufficient bone in the upper jaw, including tooth loss, periodontal disease, or natural bone resorption. When planning for dental implants in the upper posterior region, it is essential to have a stable and adequate bone foundation. A sinus lift creates the necessary space and support for successful implant placement.


Benefits of a Sinus Lift
- Facilitates Implant Placement: A sinus lift makes it possible to secure dental implants in the upper jaw, even when the natural bone volume is limited.
- Enhances Implant Success: By creating a stable foundation, a sinus lift significantly increases the likelihood of successful implant integration and long-term stability.
- Restores Dental Function: The procedure helps restore lost chewing function and prevents further tooth loss.
- Improves Aesthetics: A sinus lift can enhance facial aesthetics by preserving the natural contours of the jaw and preventing a sunken appearance.
- Minimizes Complications: With careful planning and execution, a sinus lift procedure is safe and minimizes the risk of complications.
The Sinus Lift Procedure
Before the sinus lift procedure, you may be advised to:
- Cease Smoking: If you smoke, it’s essential to quit or significantly reduce smoking, as smoking can impair the healing process.
- Medications: Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to prevent infection or manage postoperative discomfort.
Sinus Lift Surgery
The sinus lift procedure itself involves several key steps:
- Anesthesia: You will receive local anesthesia to numb the surgical area, ensuring your comfort during the procedure.
- Incision: A small incision is made in the gum tissue near the premolars or molars, providing access to the underlying bone.
- Lifting the Sinus Membrane: The sinus membrane is gently lifted, creating a space between the sinus cavity and the jawbone, using specialist instrumentation.
- Bone Grafting: A bone graft material, often sourced from your body or a synthetic material, is placed in the space created above the jawbone. This graft material encourages the growth of new bone.
- Closure: The incision is sutured closed, and the surgical site is carefully protected.
Healing and Osseointegration
After the sinus lift, a healing period is necessary for the graft material to integrate with your natural bone. During this time, it’s essential to:
- Avoid Forceful Activities: Strenuous activities should be avoided to prevent any disruption to the healing process.
- Follow Postoperative Instructions: Your dental team will provide you with specific postoperative care instructions, including guidelines on pain management and oral hygiene.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress.
Dental Implant Placement
Once sufficient bone volume is achieved, typically several months after the sinus lift, you can proceed with dental implant placement. Our surgeon will carefully assess the condition of the graft site and ensure that it is ready for implant surgery.

Sinus lift surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring you experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Postoperatively, you may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications.
Recovery time can vary depending on the individual, but most patients can expect a few days of downtime. It’s essential to follow postoperative care instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Sinus lift procedures are generally safe when performed by experienced dental professionals. Risks are minimal but may include infection, bleeding, or graft failure. Your dental team will take all necessary precautions to minimize these risks.
In most cases, dental implant placement is performed several months after a sinus lift, allowing time for the graft material to integrate with your natural bone. However, immediate implant placement may be considered in certain situations, depending on the specific case.
The need for a sinus lift on both sides of the upper jaw depends on your individual case and the condition of your bone. We will recommend the appropriate treatment plan based on your unique needs.
At Dulwich Dental Office, we understand that a sinus lift procedure can be a crucial step in achieving a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing smile, especially when considering dental implants. Our experienced dental team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care throughout your sinus lift journey. If you’re ready to explore this advanced dental solution or have any questions, please contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Conclusion
We are committed to offering the latest advancements in dental implant technology, including Immediate Load Dental Implants. This innovative procedure can transform your smile and your life, providing you with a fast, efficient, and long-lasting solution to missing teeth. If you’re ready to take the next step towards a beautiful smile, contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Our Immediate Load Implat Expert Dr Javier Perez

Dr Javier Perez
Dental Implant and Oral Surgeon
Lic Odont, PG Cert (Implant), MClinDent (Implant), Dip Oral Surg RCS (Eng), PG Cert Cons Sed
GDC No: 225487
Special interest in Oral Surgery & Dental Implants
Dr Javier Perez graduated in dental surgery in 2010.
His clinical practice is focused on dental implants and oral surgery, from simple single tooth replacements to complex reconstructions involving both soft and hard tissues.
Dr Javier has completed a Masters in Implant Dentistry MClinDent (Implant) in London over three years and was awarded a diploma in Oral Surgery from the Royal College of Surgeons of England, one of the most prestigious colleges in UK.
Dr Perez has trained in Oral Surgery at the Maxillofacial Unit in the Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in South England. He is at the forefront of dental implants and oral surgery regularly attending National and International conferences to develop his skills and learn about the latest trends in Implantology.
At Dulwich Dental our implant team have placed over 5000 implants, often undertaking and being referred cases from other practioners. We also consult and treat cases where you may have been told that you are unsuitable for dental implants. Having assembled one of the countries leading dental implant teams we can treat the most advanced and complex cases here at Dulwich Dental Office.
Outside of work Dr Javier spends the majority of his time with his young family, recently welcoming a new son (October, 2021). He enjoys spending weekends exploring London, especially going to local food markets.
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