A sinus lift (also called sinus augmentation) is a procedure where the floor of the maxillary sinus (an air-filled space in your cheekbone, above your upper back teeth) is raised and bone grafting material is placed underneath it. This creates enough bone depth to place a dental implant in the upper jaw.
Because the sinus membrane is involved, there are some very specific post-operative instructions that are different from a standard bone graft.
Expect noticeable swelling across your cheek, around your eye, and possibly into the nose area. This peaks on day 2–3 and fades over 7–14 days.
Bruising is common and may appear under the eye or on the cheek.
You may have blood-tinged fluid drain from your nose on the day of surgery — this is normal. Wipe gently; do not blow your nose.
The sinus membrane that has been elevated is delicate. Pressure changes can tear it and cause the graft to fail. The following precautions are essential for at least 2 weeks after surgery (and until your dentist clears you):
Do NOT blow your nose. This is the most important instruction. Blowing your nose creates pressure that can rupture the sinus membrane. If you need to clear your nose, gently dab or sniff quietly.
Do NOT sneeze with your mouth closed. If you feel a sneeze coming, open your mouth wide to release the pressure gently.
Do not use nasal decongestant sprays without first checking with your dentist.
Avoid flying for at least 4 weeks (pressure changes in aircraft can displace the graft).
Do not play a wind instrument or do anything that creates internal air pressure (blowing up balloons, etc.).
Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 5–7 days.
Sleep with your head elevated on extra pillows.
Pain Management and Medication
Take all prescribed medication exactly as directed. Antibiotics are important after sinus lift to prevent infection spreading into the sinus cavity.
Take antibiotics for the full prescribed course — do not stop early even if you feel better.
Take prescribed or over-the-counter painkillers on a regular schedule for the first 3–4 days.
Ibuprofen is particularly helpful as it reduces both pain and sinus inflammation.
If you have been prescribed opioid-containing painkillers (such as codeine or co-codamol), do not drive, operate machinery, or drink alcohol while taking them — this is a legal requirement.
A nasal saline spray may be recommended by your dentist to keep the nasal passages moist without creating pressure — use only if directed.
Pain should reduce gradually each day from day 3 onwards. Worsening pain should be reported to your dentist.
Diet and Oral Hygiene
Diet:
Eat soft foods only for the first 2 weeks: soups, mashed potato, yoghurt, scrambled eggs, soft fish, smoothies.
Avoid chewing on the operated side.
Avoid hot food and drinks for the first 24 hours.
Do not use a straw for at least 48 hours.
Stay well hydrated with cool or warm drinks.
Oral hygiene:
Do not rinse on the day of surgery.
From day 2: gently rinse with warm salty water after meals. Let the rinse fall gently from your mouth — no swishing or forceful spitting.
Use chlorhexidine mouthwash if prescribed, as directed.
Brush other teeth gently. Avoid the surgical site for 1–2 weeks.
Signs of Sinus Complications
The most important complication specific to sinus lift surgery is perforation or infection of the sinus. Know the warning signs:
Air escaping from the wound when you breathe or try to equalise pressure — this suggests a tear in the sinus membrane. Do not blow your nose and contact your dentist immediately.
Coloured (yellow or green) nasal discharge — may indicate a sinus infection (sinusitis)
Increasing facial pressure or pain behind the cheekbone, especially after day 4
Temperature above 38°C
Significant or worsening swelling after day 4
Contact your dentist promptly if you notice any of these signs. Sinus infection after a sinus lift requires prompt treatment with antibiotics.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Contact your dentist or call NHS 111 immediately if you have:
Heavy bleeding from the mouth or nose that will not stop
Severe pain not controlled by medication
Swelling worsening significantly after day 4, or spreading to the eye or neck
High temperature above 38°C
Signs of sinus infection (facial pressure, coloured nasal discharge, fever)
Sudden severe headache
Go to A&E or call 999 if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, or if you feel very unwell.
This leaflet is for general information only and does not replace professional dental advice. Your dentist will discuss your individual circumstances and any risks specific to you. Treatment outcomes vary between patients depending on individual circumstances.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Contact your dentist immediately if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain not controlled by medication, significant swelling worsening after day 4, a temperature above 38°C, or signs of sinus infection (facial pressure, coloured discharge from the nose). Go to A&E if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing.
References
Aligned with guidance from: FGDP(UK), ITI guidelines, SDCEP.