Sinus Lift
Last updated: Mar 18, 2025.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
Sinus lift surgery, also known as sinus augmentation, is a dental bone graft procedure
performed to support dental implants by increasing bone volume in the upper jaw,
particularly in the area of the back teeth (molars and premolars).
The procedure involves lifting the maxillary sinus membrane and placing bone graft material into
the space created. Over time, the grafted material gradually integrates with the natural
jawbone.
A sinus lift provides a stable foundation for dental implants, enhancing their long-term
success and functionality.
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Why Is a Sinus Lift Needed?
A sinus lift may be needed when there is insufficient bone height in the upper jaw or when the sinuses are too close to the jaw for dental implants to be placed securely. This can occur for several reasons:
- Bone Loss Due to Tooth Loss – When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone gradually deteriorates over time, potentially leaving insufficient structure to support a dental implant.
- Natural Bone Structure and Sinus Anatomy – Some individuals naturally have larger sinus cavities or reduced bone height in the upper jaw, making implant placement more challenging without additional bone augmentation.
- Gum Disease (Periodontitis) – Advanced gum disease can trigger inflammation that breaks down the bone supporting the teeth.
- Previous Dental Procedures or Trauma – Dental surgeries, facial injuries, or congenital conditions like cleft palate can impact bone volume in the upper jaw.
A sinus lift helps address these challenges by creating the necessary bone support for dental implants, which can provide several long-term benefits for some individuals, including improved chewing function, clearer speech, and the preservation of natural facial structure by preventing further bone loss.
Types of Sinus Lifts
There are two primary types of sinus lift procedures:
- Internal Sinus Lift (Osteotome Technique) – Performed through the dental implant site, this technique is typically used when only a small amount of bone augmentation is required.
- External Sinus Lift (Lateral Window Technique) – This approach involves creating a small window in the side of the jawbone and is used when more substantial bone grafting is necessary.
Consulting a qualified dentist can help determine whether a sinus lift is needed and which type is most appropriate for your dental implant procedure.
How Is a Sinus Lift Procedure Performed?
A sinus lift procedure usually takes 90 minutes to 2 hours, excluding pre-surgical assessments and preparations, and generally follows these steps:
1. Pre-Surgical Assessment
- X-rays or CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scans are used to evaluate the bone structure, sinus positioning, and overall suitability for the procedure, guiding the surgical plan.
- If an autograft (bone taken from the patient’s own body) is required, your dentist will identify the optimal donor site, such as the chin, hip, or tibia, during this stage.
2. Surgery
- Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the surgical site. General anaesthesia or sedation may be used for more complex procedures.Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the surgical site. General anaesthesia or sedation may be used for more complex procedures.
- An incision is made in the gum tissue where the dental implant will be placed. A small window is then created in the jawbone using specialised instruments to access the sinus cavity. The sinus membrane is gently lifted upward, and bone graft material (synthetic, autograft, allograft, or xenograft) is placed in the space beneath the lifted membrane.
3. Stabilisation & Closure
- The incision is closed with stitches, allowing the gum tissue to heal and the bone graft to integrate with the natural bone over time.
Sinus Lift Side Effects & Potential Risks
A sinus lift is a commonly performed procedure, however, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks:
- Sinus Membrane Perforation – The most common complication, where the sinus membrane tears during surgery. This typically occurs when the membrane is thin or fragile, but minor tears can often be repaired during the procedure.
- Infection – As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, though this is uncommon with proper sterile techniques and post-surgery care.
- Bone Graft Failure – In rare cases, the bone graft may not integrate with the existing bone due to reasons such as insufficient blood supply, infection, or underlying health conditions.
- Sinus Issues – Temporary sinus congestion or discomfort may occur due to the sinus membrane being lifted, but this usually resolves as healing progresses.
Sinus Lift Recover Time: What to Expect?
Sinus lift recovery typically takes 4 to 6 months, depending on the amount of bone grafted and
the individual's healing process. Full bone integration is ideal before proceeding with dental
implant placement.
Post-Operative Care Tips:
- Avoid sneezing or blowing the nose forcefully to prevent pressure on the sinus membrane.
- Take prescribed medications, including antibiotics and pain relievers, as directed, to manage discomfort.
- Stick to soft, nutrient-rich foods for the first few days to minimise strain on the surgical site.
- Refrain from using straws to avoid creating pressure in the sinus area, which can disrupt healing.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can slow healing, interfere with medications, and increase swelling.
- Attend follow-up appointments to allow your dentist to monitor the healing process, assess bone graft integration, and determine the appropriate timing for dental implant placement (typically a few months later).
It is important to follow your dentist’s post-surgery instructions to minimise these risks for
optimal recovery.
You should consult your dentist if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening pain.
- Prolonged swelling or bleeding.
- Fever, along with warmth or redness around the surgical site.
- Unusual discharge from the surgical area.
- Or suspect that the graft may have dislodged due to forceful sneezing or blowing.
Dental Sinus Lift Cost in Singapore
The cost of a sinus lift varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the type of bone graft material used. At True Dental Studio, we offer sinus lift surgery and other dental bone grafting procedures with the following pricing details:
| Services | Price* |
|---|---|
| Assessment (not exhaustive) | |
| Consultation | $27.25 to $65.40 |
| 3D Cone Beam CT (Sectional) | $130.80 |
| 3D Cone Beam CT | $327 |
| Dental Procedures (partially MediSave-claimable) | |
| Sinus Lift Surgery | From $2725 |
| Dental Bone Graft Surgery | From $2180 |
| Dental Implant | From $3815 |
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.
The cost of surgery covers the surgical procedure and standard post-operative care; however, additional
fees may apply. Pre-surgical assessments and follow-up appointments are charged separately and will
contribute to the overall cost.
Sinus lift surgeries and dental implants can be partially covered by MediSave if you are a Singapore Citizen or
Permanent Resident (PR), subject to eligibility and approval.
Additionally, the procedure may be claimable under additional insurance coverage or specific dental
insurance plans, depending on your policy. Contact
us to learn more about the pricing and available financing options for your needs.
How Do I Book a Consultation for Sinus Lift?
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At True Dental, it is our commitment to ensure our patients are kept as comfortable as possible. We aim to minimize discomfort, if any, for our patients.
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We believe in pricing quality treatments at a competitive rate. We are transparent and upfront with our treatment costs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A sinus lift is a commonly performed dental procedure, with factors influencing its success including the patient’s overall health, the type of bone graft material used, and adherence to post-operative care. Regular follow-up appointments also allow for the monitoring of healing progress and the early detection of any issues, which can contribute to positive outcomes. Your dentist can provide more detailed information about the procedure and assess your suitability.
Sinus lift recovery typically involves mild swelling, discomfort, and possible sinus congestion during the first few days after surgery. These symptoms generally subside within a week, but full bone integration takes 4 to 6 months. During recovery, it is essential to follow post-operative care instructions, such as avoiding forceful sneezing and sticking to soft foods, to promote proper healing. If symptoms worsen or persist, you should consult your dentist or oral surgeon.
Yes, a sinus lift surgery can be performed to create the necessary bone support for a dental implant when there is insufficient bone height in the upper jaw. This procedure is often recommended for patients with bone loss due to gum disease, tooth loss, or natural anatomical factors. Consulting a dentist can help determine if a sinus lift is necessary for your dental implant placement.
Sinus augmentation surgery, also known as a sinus lift, is a dental bone grafting procedure that increases bone volume in the upper jaw near the back teeth. The procedure involves lifting the maxillary sinus membrane and placing bone graft material into the space created to support dental implants. It is commonly recommended for patients with insufficient bone height due to tooth loss, gum disease, or variations in natural anatomical structure.
The maxillary sinus is one of the four paired paranasal sinuses, located in the upper jawbone behind the cheeks and above the upper teeth. It is the largest of the paranasal sinuses and plays a role in reducing skull weight, humidifying inhaled air, and enhancing voice resonance. In dental procedures like sinus lifts, the Schneiderian membrane, which lines the maxillary sinus, is gently lifted to create space for bone graft material to support future dental implants.
A dental sinus lift is generally performed under local anaesthesia, so patients typically experience minimal pain during the procedure. After surgery, mild discomfort, swelling, and sinus congestion are common but usually manageable with prescribed medications. Most patients find the discomfort similar to that of other minor dental procedures, and symptoms generally improve within a few days. Consulting a dentist can provide guidance on what to expect and how to manage pain during recovery.
While sinus lift surgery is a commonly performed dental procedure, potential downsides include sinus membrane perforation, infection, bone graft failure, or sinus congestion during recovery. The procedure also requires several months of healing before dental implant placement. However, it may be necessary for dental implants and can provide benefits such as improved chewing, clearer speech, and preserved facial structure. It is advisable to consult a dentist to weigh the potential benefits against the risks for your dental needs.
At True Dental Studio, the cost of a sinus lift ranges from $2725 NETT, depending on the complexity of the procedure. This excludes any pre-surgical assessments or follow-up costs. MediSave coverage may be available for eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. Contact us to learn more about the pricing and available financing options.
A sinus lift does not typically change the external appearance of your face. The procedure adds bone volume in the upper jaw to support dental implants but does not affect facial structure unless significant bone loss was present before surgery. In cases of severe atrophy, the increased bone volume may provide subtle improvements in facial support, particularly around the cheeks. Consulting a dentist can help you better understand the procedure and address any concerns about potential facial changes.
A sinus lift can last for many years, especially when the bone graft successfully integrates with the natural jawbone and proper oral hygiene is maintained. The longevity of the procedure depends on factors such as bone quality, graft material, and ongoing dental care. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene habits help ensure the long-term success of the sinus lift and any associated dental implants.
You may need a sinus lift if you have insufficient bone height in the upper jaw to support dental implants. Bone loss can occur due to tooth loss, gum disease, or natural anatomical variations, such as larger sinus cavities. It is best to consult a dentist who can assess bone structure using X-rays or a CBCT scan to determine if a sinus lift is necessary for your dental implant placement.
A sinus lift does not typically improve breathing, as the procedure focuses on increasing bone volume in the upper jaw rather than altering sinus function. In some cases, patients with sinus-related issues before surgery might experience temporary congestion or minor changes during recovery. If breathing difficulties persist or worsen after surgery, it is advisable to consult your dentist or oral surgeon for further evaluation.
Blowing your nose forcefully after a sinus lift can create pressure in the sinus cavity, potentially dislodging the bone graft or causing sinus membrane complications. It is usually advised to avoid nose-blowing, sneezing with a closed mouth, or using straws for the first few weeks following surgery. If you accidentally blow your nose and experience unusual symptoms, such as increased pain or discharge, consult your dentist or oral surgeon promptly.
Yes, alternatives to a sinus lift may include using shorter implants if there is enough available bone, or placing zygomatic implants, which anchor into the cheekbone instead of the jawbone. In some cases, bone grafting techniques like ridge augmentation or distraction osteogenesis might be considered. Consulting a dentist can help determine if an alternative procedure is suitable for your dental needs.
Signs of a failed sinus lift include persistent pain, swelling, infection, or unusual discharge beyond the typical recovery period. Other indicators might include a feeling of looseness or movement in the grafted area or an inability to place the dental implant successfully. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your dentist or oral surgeon immediately for further assessment.
The cost of a sinus lift at True Dental Studio ranges from $2725 NETT, depending on the complexity of the procedure. This amount does not include pre-surgical assessments or follow-up appointments. MediSave coverage may be available for eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. Contact us to find out more about the pricing and financing options available.
Avoiding a sinus lift might be possible if you maintain good oral health to prevent bone loss or opt for dental implants soon after tooth extraction. In some cases, shorter implants or alternative techniques like zygomatic implants can provide solutions without a sinus lift. Consulting a dentist can help you explore options based on your bone structure and dental goals.
Yes, a sinus lift is a minor surgical procedure that involves lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material to increase bone volume in the upper jaw. The surgery is typically performed under local anaesthesia, though sedation or general anaesthesia may be recommended for more complex cases. Like other surgical procedures, it requires proper preparation, post-operative care, and follow-up visits to ensure optimal healing and bone integration.