Loss of natural bone is most often a consequence of tooth loss, as the bone that once supported the tooth atrophies and loses volume. During a sinus lift procedure, the sinus floor is raised and the space beneath the sinus is filled with artificial bone.
After a certain period, the artificial bone osseointegrates with the dental implant, creating a strong foundation for placing ceramic crowns or implant-supported dentures. By lifting the sinus, we increase the bone volume in the upper jaw, enabling the placement of dental implants.
Dental implants placed in bone created through the sinus lift procedure have the same long lifespan as those placed in healthy bone. It is common to perform the sinus lift and implant placement simultaneously, but in cases of significant bone loss, a healing period of 6 to 8 months is required between the sinus lift and implant placement.
Piezo surgery devices ensure minimal trauma to the bone and increase the success rate of the procedure.
Traditional sinus lift techniques using osteotomy often cause postoperative complications such as pain, bruising, limited mouth opening, and swelling. These complications can result from the high temperatures generated while cutting the jawbone, which may lead to marginal osteonecrosis and hinder bone healing after surgery.
The piezoelectric device optimizes the surgical process and minimizes postoperative complications. Piezo surgery offers greater precision, efficient selective cutting of bone tissue, protection of soft tissues, reduced bleeding in the surgical area, and faster bone regeneration.
We use the piezo device from Mectron Dental, a pioneer in this technology.
Special ultrasonic microvibrations with the original PIEZOSURGERY® technique cut bone—and nothing else. There is no damage to soft tissue.
Before the procedure, a CBCT - three-dimensional scan of the jaw - is mandatory to assess the amount of remaining bone and the exact position of the maxillary sinus.
Based on this analysis, the dentist determines the type of sinus lift (closed or open), the amount of bone graft material needed, and the possibility of simultaneous implant placement.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so the patient feels no pain. Access to the sinus is gained through the lateral wall of the upper jaw.
The sinus membrane (Schneiderian membrane) is carefully lifted, and the space beneath it is filled with graft material - either synthetic or the patient’s own bone.
The area is then closed with sutures, and left to heal.
After the procedure, the patient receives clear verbal and written instructions for postoperative recovery.
Swelling is possible but temporary. Regular check-ups ensure proper healing monitoring.
The implant is usually placed after 4 to 6 months, once new, stable bone has formed.
The sinus lift is a routine and safe procedure but requires experience and precision. Thorough preparation and strict adherence to postoperative instructions are key to success.
Complications after a sinus lift, although rare with proper technique and preparation, can still occur. The most common include swelling, pain, bleeding, and temporary discomfort around the cheek and nose area.
Infection or sinusitis may develop, especially if bacteria enter the graft site.
A specific complication is tearing of the Schneiderian membrane (sinus lining), which can happen during the procedure.
In most cases, this can be managed immediately, but if unrecognized or improperly treated, it may lead to loss of graft material, delayed healing, or the need for another surgery.
When implant placement is done simultaneously with the sinus lift, there is a risk that the implant may fail to integrate if the graft is unstable or infection occurs.
Rarely, chronic sinus inflammation, nasal breathing difficulties, or pressure sensation in the maxillary sinus area may occur.
Therefore, it is important that the procedure is performed after thorough diagnostics (CBCT), and that the patient strictly follows post-operative instructions—especially avoiding nose blowing, sneezing through the mouth, and physical exertion.
Swelling after a sinus lift is not guaranteed but is very common and expected, especially after more extensive procedures.
It occurs as a natural response of the body to surgery and usually appears around the cheek, above the upper jaw, or under the eye.
For smaller procedures, like a closed sinus lift, swelling may be minimal or absent. In open sinus lifts, where the membrane is lifted and a larger amount of bone graft is added, swelling is more frequent but temporary.
Swelling is typically most pronounced on the second or third day after surgery and then gradually subsides. It usually resolves completely within 7 to 10 days.
To reduce swelling, it is recommended to apply external cold packs during the first 48 hours, avoid physical exertion, smoking, and anything that increases sinus pressure.
If swelling worsens, becomes painful, or is accompanied by fever, it may indicate an infection, and it is important to contact the dentist as soon as possible.
Recovery after a sinus lift usually proceeds smoothly and without complications, but it requires care and discipline. In the first few days, mild discomfort may occur—such as swelling, a feeling of pressure around the cheek, slight pain, or bruising.
These symptoms are expected and typically subside within 7 to 10 days.
Most patients can return to daily activities after a few days, but complete bone healing takes longer—sometimes up to 6 months, depending on the extent of the procedure and planned implant placement.
For proper recovery, it is important to:
avoid smoking
avoid blowing your nose and sneezing through your nose
avoid hot drinks and food during the first 24 hours
avoid physical exertion and sudden head movements
follow your dentist’s instructions and take prescribed medications regularly
Throughout the healing period, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial but should be done carefully, especially near the surgical area. The dentist will monitor healing regularly and decide when it is safe to place the implant.
