A sinus lift (also called a sinus augmentation or sinus floor elevation) is a surgical procedure to add bone to the upper jaw in the area of the upper back teeth. It is needed when there is not enough bone height in that area to safely place a dental implant.
The maxillary sinuses are air-filled spaces in the skull, located just above the upper back teeth. When upper back teeth are lost, the sinus can expand downward into the area where the tooth roots were, leaving very little bone between the sinus floor and the top of the gum.
Why might I need a sinus lift?
A sinus lift is specifically needed when:
You have lost one or more upper back teeth (premolars or molars)
The bone below the sinus floor is too shallow to hold an implant safely — typically less than 8–10mm of bone height is available
The sinus has pneumatised (expanded) since tooth loss, further reducing bone volume
What does the procedure involve?
Sinus lift surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic (and often with sedation):
An incision is made in the gum to expose the bone of the upper jaw
A small window is carefully created in the bone wall of the sinus
The sinus membrane is gently lifted upwards, creating a space
Bone graft material is packed into the space created below the lifted membrane
The incision is sutured closed
In some cases, implants can be placed at the same time as the sinus lift (a simultaneous approach). In others, healing is allowed for 4–9 months before implant placement (a staged approach). Your surgeon will advise which is appropriate based on your bone volume.
Risks and possible complications
Common:
Swelling and bruising around the cheek and eye area for 7–14 days
Blood-tinged nasal discharge for a few days
Nasal congestion — do not blow your nose forcefully for 2–4 weeks as this can dislodge the graft
Uncommon:
Sinus membrane perforation — the membrane may tear during the procedure. Small perforations can usually be repaired during surgery. A significant tear may mean the procedure is stopped and rescheduled.
Infection of the sinus (sinusitis) after surgery — requires antibiotics
Graft failure or partial resorption
Rare:
Chronic sinusitis requiring specialist ear, nose, and throat (ENT) management
Existing sinus disease (such as chronic sinusitis) significantly increases the risk of complications. Your surgeon will assess sinus health before recommending a sinus lift.
After your sinus lift
Do not blow your nose for at least 2–4 weeks — sneezing should be done with an open mouth
Avoid flying for at least 4 weeks — pressure changes can affect healing
Sleep with your head elevated for the first few days to reduce swelling
Take all prescribed medications as directed
Eat soft foods on the side away from the surgery site
Do not smoke — this is critically important for sinus lift healing
Attend all follow-up appointments — your surgeon needs to monitor healing before implant placement can be planned
Questions to ask your dentist
How much bone do I currently have, and how much needs to be added?
Can the implant be placed at the same time as the sinus lift, or will I need two separate procedures?
How long is the full treatment timeline from sinus lift to final crown?
Are my sinuses healthy enough for this procedure?
This leaflet is for general information only and does not replace professional dental advice. It is intended to support — not replace — the discussion with your dentist about your individual options, risks, and treatment plan. Treatment outcomes vary between patients depending on individual circumstances. Your dentist will confirm exact fees and what is suitable for your specific circumstances before you agree to any treatment.
When to Seek Urgent Help
If you develop significant nasal bleeding, severe swelling, or a high fever after sinus lift surgery, contact the practice immediately or go to A&E.
References
Aligned with guidance from: FGDP(UK), ITI (International Team for Implantology), SDCEP.