What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift, also called a sinus augmentation, is a bone grafting procedure that rebuilds bone in the upper back jaw.
When there is not enough bone height to support a dental implant, the sinus membrane is gently lifted, and bone graft material is placed beneath it. Over time, the graft integrates with your natural bone, creating the support needed for future implant placement.
You may need a sinus lift for implant placement if:
- You have bone loss after a tooth extraction or gum disease.
- Your sinuses are naturally large or close to the upper jaw.
- You plan to replace missing upper molars or premolars with dental implants.
Our Approach to Sinus Lift Surgery
Our board-certified oral surgeons, Dr. Epstein and Dr. Kim, use advanced technology and biologic materials to protect bone structure and prepare the upper jaw for future implant placement.
- Advanced Technology: 3D CBCT imaging provides detailed visualization of bone thickness, sinus position, and planned implant sites. This allows for accurate surgical planning and precise placement of bone grafts for predictable outcomes.
- Patient Comfort & Safety: Sinus lift surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, with additional sedation options available for your comfort. We use minimally invasive techniques and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) when appropriate to promote soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and support faster recovery. We also used advanced techniques that are less invasive than traditional techniques.
- Expertise in Bone Regeneration: Dr. Epstein and Dr. Kim are highly trained in bone grafting and oral surgery. Whether restoring bone for a single dental implant or rebuilding larger areas of the upper jaw, their focus is always on achieving long-term stability and optimal bone health.
A Focus on a Comfortable Recovery
Your comfort and recovery are an essential part of every surgical procedure. With modern anesthetics, advanced biologic materials, and careful aftercare, most patients experience little to no discomfort after surgery. Exparel, a long-lasting anesthetic, may also be used to provide up to 72 hours of relief and reduce the need for prescription pain medication.
What to Expect
Knowing what happens before, during, and after sinus lift surgery can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your care. Our team walks you through each stage so you know exactly what to expect from start to finish.
Consultation and Planning
Your appointment begins with a detailed evaluation and CBCT scan to assess bone structure and sinus anatomy. We review your treatment goals, explain every step of the sinus lift process, and answer any questions so you can feel confident moving forward.
Day of Surgery
During the procedure, your surgeon gently lifts the sinus membrane and places bone graft material beneath it to increase bone height and volume. The area is then covered and sutured to keep the graft secure while healing begins.
Healing and Follow-Up
Over the next several months, your body gradually integrates the graft material with your natural bone. This process strengthens the upper jaw and creates a stable foundation for future dental implant placement. Our team schedules follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure your recovery is progressing as expected.
Dental Implant Placement After Sinus Lift Surgery
Once the grafted bone has fully integrated, the area becomes strong enough to support secure, long-lasting implant placement.
The timing for dental implants depends on the size of the graft and your individual healing response. In many cases, implants can be placed four to six months after the sinus lift. For smaller grafts, placement may occur even sooner if bone stability is confirmed through follow-up imaging.
During your checkups, our surgeons evaluate healing progress and determine the optimal time for your dental implant procedure to ensure the best long-term results.
We’re Here to Support You
We welcome referrals, second opinions, and patients who want implant treatment from experienced surgeons who combine precision with compassion.
Our practice is in network with Delta Dental, Cigna, Premera, Regence, Aetna, GEHA, and LifeWise. For other dental insurance plans, we are happy to file claims on your behalf to help you receive the maximum reimbursement available.
We also offer convenient financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and Proceed Finance. From consultation through recovery, our administrative team is here to make every step clear and stress-free.
FAQs
Is sinus lift surgery painful?
With advanced sedation and the use of Exparel anesthetic, patients experience little to no pain during or after surgery.
How long does healing take after a sinus lift?
Initial healing occurs within a few weeks, while full bone integration typically takes 4–6 months before implants can be placed.
Does a sinus lift change facial appearance?
A sinus lift does not change your facial appearance. The procedure takes place inside the upper jaw and is designed to rebuild bone beneath the sinus cavity, not alter facial structure.
Who performs sinus lift surgery near me?
Dr. Epstein and Dr. Kim perform sinus lift surgery at Green Lake Oral & Facial Surgery in Seattle and JAWNT Oral Surgery in Shoreline, combining expertise, advanced technology, and compassionate care.
