Sinus Lift Surgery

Why International Patients Choose Yonsei Heal Dental at Seoul

What Is Sinus Lift Surgery?

When you lose upper back teeth (molars and premolars), the bone in the upper jaw gradually resorbs and the maxillary sinus drops down, leaving insufficient bone to support implants.


Sinus lift surgery, also called sinus augmentation, gently raises the sinus membrane and fills the space with bone graft material. This creates enough vertical bone height for secure, long-lasting implant placement.


Why Sinus Lift Surgery Is Important

  • Prevents Implant Failure: Without enough bone height, implants may loosen or fail.
  • Restores Proper Support: Raises the sinus floor to create a solid base for implants.
  • Requires Expert Skill: Because the sinus membrane is thin, experience is crucial to avoid perforation and complications.


Sinus Lift Surgery Process

  1. 3D CT Scan & Planning : Evaluate sinus position, bone thickness, and plan the lift.
  2. Sinus Membrane Elevation : Gently lift the sinus membrane to create space for grafting.
  3. Bone Graft Placement : Place bone graft material to rebuild bone volume.
  4. Healing & Integration : Wait 4–6 months for graft to stabilize and integrate with natural bone.
  5. Implant Placement : Place dental implants securely into the newly formed bone.
  6. Final Restoration : Attach a custom crown or bridge to complete your treatment.


Advantages of Sinus Lift Surgery

  • Makes Implant Placement Possible: Even for patients with severe bone loss.
  • Strong, Long-Term Result: Provides a reliable foundation for decades of implant use.
  • Improves Facial Profile: Restores lost bone height, maintaining facial harmony.
  • High Success Rate: Over 90–95% when performed by skilled specialists.


Who Needs Sinus Lift Surgery?

  • Patients who have lost upper molars a long time ago and have thin or resorbed bone
  • Those whose sinus cavity has dropped too low
  • People with bone height less than 4–5 mm, making implants unstable
  • Patients with severe gum disease history and significant bone loss


Why Sinus Lift Is Challenging

The sinus membrane is very thin and delicate — inexperienced surgery can result in perforation, infection, and need for retreatment.
That’s why it’s crucial to choose a clinic with extensive sinus lift experience and advanced bone grafting expertise.


Our Clinic’s Strengths

  • Digital 3D CT & Planning – for precise diagnosis and safe surgery
  • Expert Oral Surgeons – extensive experience in complex sinus lift cases
  • Advanced Bone Grafting – GBR, PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) for faster healing
  • Sterile Surgical Rooms – infection prevention and strict hygiene protocols
  • Comfortable Treatment – local anesthesia or sedation options available


Top 10 FAQs

  1. What is sinus lift surgery?
    It’s a procedure that raises the sinus floor and adds bone so implants can be securely placed in the upper jaw.
  2. Is sinus lift surgery painful?
    No. It is done under local anesthesia or sedation, and most patients report only mild discomfort.
  3. How long does healing take?
    Typically 4–6 months, after which implants can be placed securely.
  4. Can I get implants on the same day?
    If there is enough initial bone height, simultaneous implant placement may be possible.
  5. What type of bone graft is used?
    Autograft (your own bone), donor bone, animal-derived bone, or synthetic bone — selected based on your case.
  6. Are sinus lifts safe?
    Yes. When performed by experienced specialists, they have a very high success rate (>90%).
  7. Are there risks?
    Possible risks include sinus membrane perforation, infection, or graft failure — but these are rare with proper technique.
  8. Will this affect my breathing or sinuses?
    No. The procedure does not interfere with breathing or sinus function.
  9. Will I have swelling after surgery?
    Mild swelling and bruising may occur but usually subsides in a few days.
  10. How do I prepare for a sinus lift?
    Your doctor will review your medical history and advise you to avoid sinus infections or colds before the surgery for best results.