What is a sinus lift? A sinus lift — also called sinus augmentation — is a bone grafting procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw between your jaw and your maxillary sinuses. It's needed when there isn't enough bone height in the upper back jaw to support dental implants. This is one of the most common reasons patients are told they "can't get implants" in the upper jaw. At Texas Dental Implant Center in Houston, Dr. Michel Azer performs sinus lifts regularly as part of implant treatment planning.
Why Would I Need a Sinus Lift?
Your upper back teeth sit directly beneath your maxillary sinuses. When upper back teeth are lost, the bone shrinks and the sinus membrane can expand downward. This leaves insufficient bone height for an implant.
You may need a sinus lift if: you've been missing upper back teeth for a long time, you've worn an upper denture for years, you naturally have large sinuses or thin bone, or a previous dentist said there's "not enough bone."
How the Procedure Works
Step 1: An incision exposes the bone. A small window is created in the bone wall.
Step 2: The sinus membrane is gently lifted upward.
Step 3: Bone graft material is placed in the space created.
Step 4: The incision is closed with stitches.
The graft integrates with your natural bone over 4–6 months. In some cases, the sinus lift and implant placement can be done in the same appointment.
Recovery
Expect mild swelling for 3–5 days. Specific precautions: don't blow your nose forcefully for 2 weeks, sneeze with your mouth open, and avoid straws for the first week. Most patients return to normal activities within 2–3 days.
Alternatives to a Sinus Lift
Zygomatic implants anchor into the cheekbone instead of the upper jaw, bypassing the sinus entirely. Dr. Azer offers these for patients with severe upper jaw bone loss who want to avoid the wait time of a sinus lift.
Shorter implants may fit within the available bone without disturbing the sinus in some cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a sinus lift painful?
Most patients describe it as less painful than expected. Recovery is comparable to a tooth extraction.
How long to heal?
4–6 months for bone graft integration. In some cases, implants can be placed at the same time.
How much does it cost?
Varies by extent. Quoted separately from the implant price at your consultation.
Can I avoid a sinus lift?
Possibly — with shorter implants or zygomatic implants. Dr. Azer evaluates all options.
Is it safe?
Yes. Performed for decades with high success rates. Serious complications are rare.
A 3D scan is the only way to know if you need one. Schedule a free consultation at Texas Dental Implant Center.