What is a sinus lift?

Last updated on: 5 Aug, 2026

When you are due to have missing teeth replaced with dental implants in the back of the upper jaw, you will often hear the term ‘sinus lift’. This surgical procedure makes it possible to successfully place implants where there is a lack of bone.

What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift, or sinus elevation, is a specialised procedure in the field of oral surgery involving bone augmentation – increasing the volume of existing bone tissue. The procedure is performed in the upper jaw, where the maxillary sinuses are located on either side of the nose, immediately above the back teeth.

During a sinus lift procedure, the floor of the maxillary sinus is carefully lifted upwards, and a bone graft – a material that stimulates the formation of new bone – is placed in the space created. This achieves the necessary height and volume of bone for the subsequent placement of dental implants, ensuring the long-term success of the treatment.

The bone graft material can be an autogenous graft (the patient’s own bone, taken from another part of the body), a xenograft (processed animal bone of bovine or porcine origin) or synthetic bone substitute materials. Each of these materials has its own advantages and is selected on a case-by-case basis depending on the clinical situation.

Image: freepik

When is the procedure necessary?

The main indications for a sinus lift include several clinical situations in which the bone tissue in the posterior regions of the upper jaw is insufficient for successful implantation.

Long-term tooth loss

Following tooth loss, the bone gradually begins to resorb (atrophy) as it no longer receives functional loading during chewing. The longer the period without tooth replacement, the more pronounced the bone loss becomes.

Anatomical features

Some people naturally have a larger maxillary sinus cavity or a thinner bone wall, which makes it impossible to place implants directly without first augmenting the bone.

Periodontal disease

Advanced periodontitis leads to loss of bone tissue around the teeth, which may leave insufficient bone following the removal of the affected teeth.

Age-related changes

With age, the maxillary sinus naturally expands downwards and the bone thins, particularly with prolonged use of removable dentures.

A minimum bone height of 10–13 mm is required for successful implantation. When the available bone is less than this, a sinus lift creates the necessary conditions for safe and effective treatment with dental implants.

How does the diagnosis proceed?

Before a sinus lift, a detailed diagnosis is essential, as it is key to the success of the entire procedure. During the clinical examination, a careful inspection of the oral cavity is carried out, and the condition of the gums, existing teeth and the general health of the tissues are assessed.

The most important examination is a 3D CT scan. It provides detailed three-dimensional information on the height and width of the existing bone, the exact location of the maxillary sinus, the thickness of the sinus membrane itself, and the presence of septa or other anatomical features. The scan allows for precise planning of the procedure and selection of the appropriate sinus lift technique.

Image: freepik

How does the preparation for treatment proceed?

Once the diagnosis has confirmed the need for a sinus lift, a phase of careful preparation follows, which increases the chances of a healthy recovery and minimises the risk of complications.

Before any surgical procedures, all cavities, gum inflammation and tartar must be removed. The mouth must be in excellent condition to prevent infection following a sinus lift. Depending on the clinical case, an antibiotic may be prescribed even before the procedure to prevent the risk of infection.

Treatment methods

Modern dental practice offers two main methods for performing the treatment, each with its own indications. The method is chosen based on the amount of available bone and the number of implants to be placed.

Lateral sinus lift

A lateral sinus lift (open sinus lift) is the method used in cases of significant bone deficiency – usually when the available bone height is less than 4 mm. 

Depending on the amount of available bone, sinus lift implants can be placed during the same visit (provided there is sufficient primary stability) or after a healing period of 6 to 8 months.

Crestal sinus lift

A crestal sinus lift (closed sinus lift) is the less invasive method, used when the available bone height is 4–5 mm (or up to 7 mm) and the placement of one or two implants is planned.

With this technique, access to the sinus is gained through the implant site itself. The advantage of this method is that the implants are placed immediately, tissue trauma is reduced, and recovery is faster.

Risks and potential complications

Before undergoing a sinus lift, it is important to be aware of the possible risks and contraindications.

Relative contraindications that can be addressed before the procedure:

• Acute or untreated chronic sinusitis;
• Active infections in the oral cavity;

• Tooth decay and active periodontal disease;
• Heavy smoking;
• Poor oral hygiene.

Absolute contraindications that preclude the procedure:

• Malignant or benign neoplasms in the maxillary sinus;
• Severe autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiency conditions;
• Serious blood clotting disorders;
• Active radiotherapy or chemotherapy in the head and neck region;
• Severe mental health conditions.

As for potential complications, when properly planned and performed by an experienced specialist, they are extremely rare. Mild swelling, discomfort and minimal bleeding in the first few days after the operation are normal temporary reactions of the body, which are easily managed with prescribed medication. 

The real benefits of a sinus lift far outweigh the risks, and the procedure is characterised by high predictability and success rates.

Post-operative care and recovery period

Following a sinus lift operation, strict adherence to specific recommendations is required to ensure optimal healing and avoid complications. The recovery period is divided into several stages, each with its own specific requirements.

In the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure, you can apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce swelling. Avoid sneezing, coughing or blowing your nose forcefully, as this may displace the bone material and compromise the success of the procedure. It is recommended that you sleep with your head elevated on high pillows to reduce swelling.

During the first week, post-operative care is key to a healthy recovery. Take the prescribed antibiotics and painkillers as directed by your doctor, without missing any doses. Avoid hard foods and chew on the opposite side to avoid putting strain on the operated area.

Long-term recommendations include attending regular check-ups according to the schedule set by your doctor. If you strictly follow all recommendations, your recovery will proceed smoothly and without complications. 

Conclusion

A sinus lift is a proven, safe and highly effective procedure that enables the successful replacement of missing teeth with dental implants, even in cases of insufficient bone tissue. 

At Dentatime Clinic, we have the necessary expertise, state-of-the-art equipment and experience to perform sinus lift surgery and dental implantology to the highest standard. Dr Radoslav Simeonov and the Dentatime team take an individual approach to each case and carefully plan every stage. 

Don’t let a lack of bone be an obstacle to restoring your smile. The benefits of a sinus lift are undeniable – the procedure ensures long-term implant stability, aesthetic results and the restoration of full chewing function. 

Contact Dentatime Clinic for a consultation and a personalised treatment plan. Book an appointment by calling +359 892 600 602 or via the online form on our website.

Frequently asked questions

Is the sinus lift procedure painful?

No, the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and patients do not feel any pain. After the operation, there may be some discomfort and slight swelling, which can be easily managed with prescribed painkillers.

How much does the procedure cost?

The exact cost of a sinus lift depends on the method used, the type and amount of bone material required, the need for additional membranes, and the number of implants. An individual consultation and diagnosis are required for an accurate quote.

Is there an alternative to a sinus lift in cases of bone deficiency?

In certain cases, an alternative may be the use of short implants (up to 6 mm), zygomatic implants, which are fixed in the cheekbone, or basal implants, which are placed in the deeper layers of the bone. The choice of the optimal method is made on an individual basis following a detailed diagnosis by an experienced implantologist.