Upper Jaw Sinus Lift and When It Is Necessary

By Leading Health Centers GmbH · Published on 06.08.2026

Initial Anatomical Situation in the Upper Jaw

The maxillary sinus is lined with a thin mucous membrane that plays an important role in the function of the paranasal sinuses. After tooth loss, the balance in this area is significantly altered.

When a person does not chew, the jawbone is subjected to less stress and therefore gradually resorbs. This reduces the thickness of the membrane separating the oral cavity from the maxillary sinus, and the resulting low bone height poses a problem for implant placement.

When a Sinus Lift Is Necessary

A sinus lift is necessary when the remaining bone height in the upper jaw is insufficient to securely anchor an implant. In some cases, however, implants can still be placed without additional measures if bone loss is minimal. If the bone height is significantly reduced, however, the implant’s primary stability is insufficient. In such cases, bone augmentation in the area of the maxillary sinus is urgently required to ensure the long-term stability of the implant.

Internal and External Sinus Lifts

There are two basic procedures:

In an internal sinus lift , access is gained through the implant canal. The maxillary sinus mucosa is carefully elevated, and the resulting space is filled with bone graft material. This procedure has proven particularly effective in cases of moderate bone loss when only a small amount of height gain is required.

In an external sinus lift, lateral access to the maxillary sinus is created. Through a small window in the bone wall, the mucosa is detached and then carefully elevated. The resulting space is subsequently filled with bone graft material. This procedure is used when a larger amount of bone augmentation is necessary.

Materials for the Sinus Lift

Various materials are available for sinus lifts. Autologous bone has proven to be very effective, as it ensures good biological integration.

In addition, bone substitute materials are used to serve as a scaffold for new bone formation. Over time, these materials are replaced by the body’s own tissue. A combination of different materials is often used to maximize the benefits.

Procedure

Local anesthesia is generally sufficient for a sinus lift. Access is gained using the selected technique, either through the alveolar ridge or through the lateral bone wall.

The maxillary sinus mucosa is lifted, and it is essential that its integrity be preserved. Bone graft material is then placed to increase bone volume. Depending on the initial condition, the implant may be placed at the same time or after a healing period.

Healing and Bone Regeneration

After the procedure, the bone regeneration phase begins. The graft material serves as a foundation for new bone formation and is gradually integrated into the existing structure. This process primarily requires time and varies from patient to patient. During the healing phase, it is important not to put excessive strain on the area and to support healing through appropriate measures and good oral hygiene.

Risks and Possible Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with a sinus lift. Perforation of the maxillary sinus mucosa is possible; however, this can usually be treated immediately during the surgery. Infections pose another risk, but these can be significantly reduced through careful planning, precise execution, and good postoperative care.

Importance for Long-Term Success

The fact is that, despite reduced bone availability, a sinus lift allows for implant placement. Targeted bone augmentation creates the necessary bone height to ensure stable anchoring of the implants.

Precise planning and careful execution are essential for achieving stable and functional long-term results. The sinus lift thus expands the possibilities for implant-based treatment and provides patients with a reliable treatment option even in challenging situations.

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