sinuslyft

Sinus lift, also known as sinus floor elevation, is a surgical procedure used to increase the amount of bone in the posterior upper jaw (maxilla) to support dental implants. It is typically performed when the natural bone height has diminished due to tooth loss, sinus pneumatization, or resorption, making implants difficult or impossible to place securely.

There are two main approaches. The lateral window technique involves creating an opening on the side of the maxillary sinus, carefully lifting the sinus membrane, and inserting bone graft material into the space. The crestal or osteotome technique works through the implant site itself, gently elevating the sinus floor and placing graft material as needed. Graft materials can be autograft, allograft, xenograft, or synthetic. After a healing period of several months, sufficient new bone forms to support implants, which are then placed and allowed to osseointegrate.

Planning relies on imaging, typically cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), to assess sinus anatomy, bone height, and width. The procedure is indicated when residual bone height is insufficient for reliable implant stability but adequate width remains. Adequate medical clearance and careful patient selection improve outcomes.

Risks include perforation of the sinus membrane, infection, graft resorption, sinusitis, bleeding, and prolonged swelling. Recovery typically involves short-term discomfort and instructions to avoid actions that increase sinus pressure. Alternatives to sinus lift include zygomatic implants, staged bone grafting with longer healing, or placing shorter implants with other restorative options.

Overall, when performed by an experienced surgeon with proper planning, a sinus lift can enable reliable dental implant placement in the upper jaw.