Sinus Lift Treatment

 What is Sinus Lifting? 

Sinus lifting is a bone augmentation surgery performed on patients who do not have sufficient bone thickness for an implant in the back region of the upper jaw. When molars in the upper jaw are lost, the bone thins over time and the cavity called the maxillary sinus sags downward. In this case, there is no longer sufficient solid bone height needed to place an implant. With sinus lifting, the sinus floor is gently lifted upward and the resulting space is filled with special bone grafts.

This procedure creates a new bone bed for the implants to anchor to. The bone graft used can be; the patient's own bone, ready-made synthetic materials, or grafts obtained from different sources. Which material will be used is determined based on the patient's condition, systemic diseases, and the physician's preference.

The sinus lifting operation is performed under local anesthesia, meaning regional numbing. It is a routine procedure for an experienced surgeon but still requires meticulous planning and sterile conditions. When applied with the correct indication, proper planning, and appropriate surgical technique, both bone volume increases and the long-term success of the implants is enhanced. In short, sinus lifting can be considered as a "preparatory surgery that makes the area with bone deficiency ready for an implant."

 Why is Sinus Lifting Performed?

The main purpose of sinus lifting is to create sufficient bone volume for an implant in the back region of the upper jaw. Severe bone loss can develop in this area due to reasons such as molars lost a long time ago, untreated periodontal diseases, or naturally thin bone structure. In such cases, it is not possible to safely place a standard-length implant.

While bone resorbs over time after tooth extraction, the maxillary sinus cavitySinus lifting solves this problem by elevating the sinus floor and adding graft to the area.

Thanks to this operation:

• Sufficient vertical bone height for the implant is provided.

• The chance of having a fixed prosthesis increases.

• The likelihood of being forced to use removable prostheses decreases.

As a result, sinus lifting is a preparatory operation that opens the door to fixed implant treatment even in cases deemed "impossible." It is an important solution option for almost every patient planned for an implant in the upper jaw back region with insufficient bone, when deemed appropriate.

How is Sinus Lifting Surgery Performed?

Sinus lifting surgery is planned after detailed radiological examination (panoramic x-ray, and often 3D tomography). The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, meaning only the relevant area is numbed. The patient does not feel pain during the operation, only a sensation of touch and pressure.

The surgeon makes a small incision in the gum in the back region of the upper jaw to reach the bone. A small window is opened on the lateral surface of the bone, and through this window, the sinus membrane (Schneiderian membrane) is very carefully lifted upward. When the membrane is elevated without tearing, a space forms beneath the sinus floor. This space is filled with a bone graft. Thus, a new bone volume for the future placement of implants is prepared.

In some cases, implants can also be placed in the same session; if the bone height does not allow this, only sinus lifting is performed first and a bone maturation process lasting approximately 4–9 months is awaited. At the end of this period, implants are placed into the newly formed bone area.

At the end of the surgery, the area is closed with stitches, and medications and detailed care recommendations are provided for the patient. When performed with the correct technique, sinus lifting is a safe and effective preparatory surgery before implant placement.

What Should Be Considered After Sinus Lifting Surgery?

The post-sinus lifting period is as important as the surgery itself. For successful healing, the patient must carefully follow the instructions. Mild swelling, oozing bleeding, and sensitivity in the first few days are considered normal. However, certain behaviors can seriously affect healing.

For the first 24 hours, it is important to chew as much as possible on the side where the surgery was not performed, avoid hot foods and drinks, and adhere to the 2-hour fasting period. Applying a cold compress externally on the first day reduces swelling and pain. Smoking, as it impairs blood circulation, should not be used for at least a few days, ideally longer.

Actions that would strain the sinus area should be avoided:

• Forceful nose blowing should not be done, and excessive force should not be used when blowing the nose.

• When sneezing, the mouth should be kept open to prevent pressure from loading onto the sinus.

The antibiotics, painkillers, and if necessary, nasal sprays prescribed by the physician should be used regularly. Stitches are usually removed within 7–10 days. During this process, blood-thinning medications (especially aspirin) should not be used without consulting the physician.

In case of unusual findings such as excessive swelling, foul-smelling discharge, increasing pain, or high fever, a dentist or oral surgeon must be consulted. With proper care, the healing process after sinus lifting is generally comfortable and predictable for patients.

What are the Risks of Sinus Lifting Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, sinus lifting surgery also has some risks; however, in experienced hands and with proper planning, these risks can be significantly reduced. The most frequently discussed risk is the tearing of the sinus membrane during the operation. Small tears can often be repaired during the same session, but in some cases, the procedure may be postponed.

Additionally;

• Infection in the operation area,

• Displacement of the graft material or insufficient bone formation,

• Sinus infection (sinusitis),

• Prolonged swelling and pain,

• Rarely, fistula formation towards the nose or sinus area may occur.

The risk of complications increases in patients with poor general health, uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smokers, or those with very poor oral hygiene. Therefore, a detailed medical evaluation before surgery is essential.

The good news is that with appropriate patient selection, correct planning with 3D imaging, sterile working conditions, and adherence to post-operative instructions, these risks can be minimized. Sinus lifting is a well-established surgery that has been performed worldwide for many years. The process can be managed safely by informing the patient, keeping expectations realistic, and with regular check-ups.

6. What is the purpose of Sinus Lifting?

Sinus lifting is not an end in itself, but an important step on the path to a larger goal: Placing solid and long-lasting implants

With this operation, the sinus floor is elevated and the area is filled with a bone graft. Thus, both vertical bone height increases and quality bone tissue that supports the implants forms around them. As a result