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Horizon OMS of Chicago - Board-Certified Oral Surgeon in Lombard Illinois
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Procedures

Sinus Lift (Sinus Augmentation)

A sinus lift adds bone in the upper jaw to support dental implants when natural bone height is limited.

Sinus lift augmentation procedure for upper jaw dental implants Illinois

What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift (sinus augmentation) is a bone grafting procedure that increases bone height in the upper back jaw (posterior maxilla) so dental implants can be placed more predictably.

Why it’s needed

After tooth loss, the upper jaw can lose bone over time and the sinus may expand into the space. When there isn’t enough native bone to stabilize an implant, a sinus lift creates room for graft material to support future implant placement.

Planning & imaging

We typically use a detailed clinical exam and 3D imaging (CBCT) to evaluate sinus anatomy, bone volume, and any sinus-related factors that can affect treatment planning.

Technique options

  • Lateral window sinus lift: often used when more graft volume is needed.
  • Crestal/osteotome approach: may be used for smaller lifts in selected cases.

The best approach depends on your bone height, implant plan, and restorative goals.

Indirect (crestal / “mini”) sinus lift

In selected cases, an indirect crestal sinus lift gently elevates the sinus membrane through the implant site. This can create enough height to place an implant and add graft material when only a small amount of additional lift is needed.

Illustration of an upper molar implant placed with an indirect crestal (mini) sinus lift

Image shown for educational purposes. Final approach depends on anatomy and implant stability.

Recovery & aftercare

Most patients have mild to moderate soreness and congestion-like pressure for a few days. We provide detailed instructions, including activity modifications (such as avoiding forceful nose blowing) to protect the graft and sinus membrane during early healing.

Sinus precautions

After a sinus lift (and sometimes after a sinus membrane tear), it’s important to avoid pressure changes in the sinus while early healing occurs. These precautions help protect the sinus membrane and graft.

  • Do not blow your nose. Sneeze with your mouth open.
  • Avoid straws, forceful spitting, and suction (including smoking/vaping).
  • Avoid heavy lifting/straining for several days, and sleep with your head elevated.
  • Take medications as prescribed and follow any decongestant/nasal spray instructions we provide.
After surgery: Review our general after-surgery instructions and implant & bone graft aftercare.
Download: Sinus precautions (PDF).

Frequently asked questions

What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift is a bone grafting procedure in the back of the upper jaw that creates adequate bone height for dental implants when the sinus is too close to the ridge.

Why do some people need it?

After tooth loss, the upper jaw bone can shrink and the sinus can expand into the space. This can leave inadequate bone for stable implant placement without grafting.

Will the sinus be “opened”?

The sinus membrane is gently elevated and graft material is placed beneath it. The goal is to protect the membrane and create bone where implants can later be placed.

Is the procedure painful?

Discomfort is usually manageable with medication and typically improves over several days. We also provide clear instructions to reduce pressure changes in the sinus.

When can implants be placed?

Some cases allow implant placement at the same appointment; others require healing first. The decision depends on existing bone height and initial stability.

What should I avoid after a sinus lift?

You’ll typically be asked to avoid blowing your nose, forceful sneezing (sneeze with your mouth open), and certain activities that increase sinus pressure during early healing.

Can I fly after a sinus lift?

It depends on timing and your individual healing. For many patients, short flights can be fine after the initial healing window, but we’ll give you personalized guidance.

Related Procedures

Dental ImplantsBone GraftingPRF