Sinus lift (open and closed)

A sinus lift is a modern surgical procedure that allows for augmentation of the upper jaw’s bone tissue to prepare for dental implantation. The procedure involves elevating the floor of the maxillary sinus and filling the space with special bone graft material. This is necessary when the natural bone thickness is insufficient for reliable implant fixation. The augmented tissue creates a stable foundation that can withstand chewing forces and ensure long-term implant success.

At Gallant Clinic, sinus lifts are performed using certified osteoplastic materials and the latest technologies. The procedure is carried out by experienced implantologists following international safety standards, ensuring a painless experience, quick recovery, and high implant integration.

Indications for sinus lift

A sinus lift is performed when the bone height in the upper jaw is inadequate for implant placement. This problem affects approximately 60–70% of patients preparing for implants in the posterior upper jaw. Key indications include:

• Insufficient bone height (less than 7–8 mm) that cannot securely support an implant
• Bone loss due to traumatic or complicated extractions
• Long-term tooth absence (over 6 months), leading to bone atrophy from lack of chewing load
• Inflammatory issues around tooth roots (e.g., periodontitis, cysts) causing bone resorption
• Anatomical factors like thin bone or a large maxillary sinus, preventing stable implant placement
• Planning implant placement in the posterior upper jaw where bone atrophy is most pronounced

At Gallant Dental Clinic, the decision to proceed with a sinus lift is made only after complete diagnostic evaluation and specialist consultation.

Contraindications for sinus lift

Although highly effective, sinus lifting may not be suitable for everyone. Key contraindications include:

• ENT inflammatory diseases (e.g., sinusitis, polyps, chronic rhinitis)
• Acute infectious conditions (e.g., colds, viral illnesses)
• Exacerbation of chronic diseases
• Bleeding disorders
• Severe cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure
• Oncology

In some cases, sinus lifting may be possible after resolving acute symptoms or stabilising health conditions.

Types of Sinus Lifts: closed and open

In dentistry, two main methods of sinus lifting are used: closed and open. The choice of technique depends on the clinical situation, particularly the thickness of the bone tissue in the upper jaw.

Closed (Transcrestal) Sinus Lift

This minimally invasive method is performed through the implant site. It’s suitable when the sinus lift is done soon after tooth loss and when bone height is between 6–8 mm. The surgeon elevates the sinus floor and inserts graft material without extra incisions. This gentle approach offers minimal discomfort and quick recovery, often allowing implant placement during the same session.

Open (Lateral) Sinus Lift

Used in more complex cases where bone height is less than 5–7 mm. This involves multiple steps:

1. The surgeon makes an incision in the mucous membrane on the side of the jaw.
2. Then open access to the maxillary sinus.
3. Carefully lifts the floor of the sinus.
4. Fills the space with bone material.
5. Places a barrier membrane and suture the soft tissues.

Because of the greater tissue trauma, implant placement is deferred. The implant is typically placed after 3–6 months, once new bone has fully formed.

Sinus Lift Procedure Steps

Sinus Lifting is a complex procedure that requires careful planning and a highly qualified specialist

Preparatory stage

Preparation for the surgical intervention includes:

1. 3D tomography (CT). Allows assessment of the height and density of bone tissue, as well as the location of the maxillary sinuses.
2. Creating an individual treatment plan. The clinical picture and the patient’s anatomical features are taken into account during this process. The doctor also selects the optimal type of bone graft material — autogenous, allogenic, synthetic, or combined.
3. Oral cavity sanitation. Before the procedure, it is necessary to eliminate inflammatory foci, tooth decay, and other diseases that may interfere with the successful osseointegration of the implant.

Comprehensive preparation allows reduction of the risks of complications after sinus lifting, ensures surgical accuracy, and creates optimal conditions for successful implant integration.

Surgical stage

The technique of performing sinus lifting depends on the chosen method — open or closed. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia, which ensures complete painlessness. After the intervention is completed, stitches are applied and recommendations for recovery are given.

The price of sinus lifting depends on the chosen method, the volume of bone grafting, the type of bone graft material, and the need for additional procedures. The cost of the operation can be determined after diagnostics and drawing up a treatment plan.

The cost of sinus lifting depends on the selected technique, the volume of bone grafting, the type of graft material, and whether any additional procedures are required. The exact price can be determined after diagnostic imaging and treatment planning.

Rehabilitation period after osteoplasty

In the first days after osteoplasty, slight swelling, sensitivity, or discomfort in the area of intervention are possible — this is a normal reaction of the body. To ensure quick and effective recovery, the following recommendations should be followed:

• apply cold compresses to the cheek for 1–2 days to reduce swelling;
• refrain from eating during the first 2 hours after the operation;
• avoid flights, physical exertion, and thermal procedures (saunas, hot baths) for 7–14 days;
• eat soft and easy-to-chew food that does not irritate the mucous membrane;
• exclude alcohol and smoking during the healing period;
• take all medications prescribed by the doctor according to instructions;
• attend follow-up appointments.

In case of severe pain, bleeding, fever, or suture dehiscence, be sure to contact your doctor. The Gallant Dental team supports patients at all stages of treatment — from diagnosis to full recovery.