Sinus surgery

Summary

• After the upper molars are lost, the bone thins and the sinus expands downwards. The height needed for an implant may be gone.
• In a sinus floor elevation the membrane lining the sinus is gently lifted and graft is placed beneath it.
• With a small height deficit the lift is done through the implant site. With a large deficit a small window is opened in the side of the jaw.

Two approaches

If the remaining bone can hold the implant, the sinus floor is pushed up a few millimetres through the implant site. This is the transalveolar approach, and the implant is usually placed at the same time.

If the remaining bone is very thin, a window is made in the cheek-side bone wall. The membrane is lifted and the space is filled with graft. This is the lateral window approach. The implant goes in at the same session or after the graft matures.

Assessment beforehand

Remaining bone height, membrane thickness and bony septa inside the sinus are examined on cross-sectional imaging.

Active sinusitis, polyps or blockage call for an ear, nose and throat assessment first.

Healing

With the lateral window, a wait of six to nine months is usual for the grafted area to mature, depending on the material. With the transalveolar approach a few months are allowed for the implant to bond.

The first weeks

Not blowing your nose hard and sneezing with your mouth open protect the membrane. Straws and heavy lifting are postponed for a while. Discuss flights and diving with your clinician.

Known risks

The most common problem is a membrane tear. Small tears are usually repaired in the same session. With large tears the procedure may be postponed.

Nosebleed, facial bruising and swelling can occur temporarily. Rarely, graft infection or sinusitis develops.

Frequently asked

Can the sinus lift and implant be done on the same day?

Yes, if the remaining bone can stabilise the implant. Otherwise grafting comes first and the implant follows later.

I have chronic sinusitis. Is this suitable for me?

The sinus is first assessed by an ear, nose and throat specialist. The procedure is not done while untreated inflammation is present.

What if my nose bleeds afterwards?

A mild nosebleed can occur in the first days. Contact your clinician if bleeding persists or increases.

This treatment is carried out at Klinik 29 (Altunizade, Üsküdar). Klinik 29 website (English)

This information is for general guidance and does not replace an examination. Rapidly spreading facial swelling or difficulty swallowing or breathing is an emergency. Go to a hospital emergency department.