Open or Closed Sinus Lift
Sinus Lifting: Healthy Implant Infrastructure
What is Sinus Lifting?
Sinus lifting is a surgical procedure aimed at creating the necessary amount of bone in the jawbone for implant placement. This specialised method offers a solution for patients with bone deficiency in the upper posterior tooth regions.
How to Apply?
Sinus lifting is usually performed with two basic methods, open and closed.
Importance of Sinus Lifting Before Implant
- Bone Insufficiency and Implant Success
Sinus lifting increases the success rate in cases where the jawbone is insufficient before implant placement.
- Aesthetic and Functional Gains
Sinus lifting supports aesthetic and functional improvement by preserving the patient’s natural tooth structure.
Open Sinus Lifting: An Effective Method to Increase Insufficient Bone Volume
What is Open Sinus Lifting?
Open sinus lifting is a surgical procedure that intervenes in the maxillary sinus cavity to create the necessary bone volume for implant placement. This method offers a solution for patients with bone deficiency in the area where the implant will be placed.
How is Open Sinus Lifting Applied?
- Pre-Operation Planning
A treatment plan is created with patient examination and diagnostic imaging.
- Surgical Procedure
The surgical field is prepared under local anaesthesia.
Access to the sinus membrane is provided by opening a window on the jawbone.
- Bone Graft Application
A special bone graft (usually from the patient’s own bone tissue or synthetic materials) is inserted into the sinus cavity.
- Removing Stitches
After the procedure, the surgical area is closed and sutured.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Open Sinus Lifting
Advantages
- More Bone Volume:
- By removing the sinus membrane, additional bone volume is created.
- Improving Implant Success:
- It increases implant success by creating a healthier implant infrastructure.
Disadvantages
Long healing process
Open sinus lifting may require a longer recovery period due to the nature of the surgical intervention.
- A More Invasive Method
It may be more invasive than other sinus lifting methods.
Open sinus lifting is an effective option to improve the success of implant treatment in cases of insufficient bone volume. However, the treatment plan should be created by taking into account the general health status and preferences of the patient. Our expert team offers the best treatment to our patients at every stage with a patient-oriented approach.
Closed Sinus Lifting: Healthy Implant Infrastructure with Minimally Invasive Method
What is Closed Sinus Lifting?
Closed sinus lifting is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at filling the sinus cavity for implant placement. This method offers a solution to patients with bone deficiency in the posterior tooth regions of the upper jaw, but prefer a less invasive approach.
How is Closed Sinus Lifting Applied?
- A Small Incision
A small incision is made under local anaesthesia.
- Gently lifting the sinus membrane
Using special instruments, the sinus membrane is gently lifted, but not completely opened.
- Bone Graft Placement
A bone graft (the patient’s own bone tissue or synthetic materials) is placed into the sinus cavity.
- Implant Placement
After sufficient bone volume is created, the implant is placed.
Closed Sinus Lifting Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Faster Recovery Process
Closed sinus lifting usually requires a shorter recovery period because it is more minimally invasive.
- Less Invasive
Since it is performed through a small incision, it is less invasive than other methods.
Disadvantages
- Limited Bone Volume Increase
It can provide a more limited bone volume increase compared to open methods.
- Subject to Certain Conditions:
Its applicability depends on the patient’s bone condition and general state of health.
Closed sinus lifting is an effective method that allows patients to reach implant treatment with a faster healing process and a minimally invasive experience. However, each patient should be evaluated individually and the treatment plan should be carefully created by specialists.
In which cases is it applied?
Who is Open and Closed Sinus Lifting Suitable for?
Sinus lifting procedures are generally suitable for patients who have bone deficiency in the upper posterior tooth area and are considering implant treatment. Which method is preferred depends on factors such as the patient’s general health status, bone structure and suitability for surgery.
Open Sinus Lifting
- Dense Sinus Membrane
It may be more effective in cases where the sinus membrane is dense.
- The Need for Further Bone Increase
It can be preferred in cases where more bone volume increase is required.
Closed Sinus Lifting
- Minimally Invasive Preference
It may be suitable for patients who want a minimally invasive approach.
- Need for Rapid Recovery
It can be preferred in patients who want a faster healing process.
Diagnostic Imaging and Hospital Selection
A detailed diagnostic evaluation should be performed before each sinus lifting procedure. At this stage, imaging techniques such as digital X-rays and computed tomography are used to evaluate bone structure, sinus condition and general oral health.
The choice of hospital is also important. A dental clinic with modern technology and an experienced team is the key to a successful sinus lifting procedure. A suitable hospital should be selected by considering the patient’s comfort, treatment results and safety.
Each patient should be evaluated individually and the treatment plan should be carefully created by specialised dentists. A detailed consultation and evaluation process before the sinus lifting procedure ensures that the most effective treatment plan suitable for the patient’s needs is determined.
Post-Operative Care: Healthy Recovery and Patient Comfort
Recovery Process and Controls
The healing process that starts after sinus lifting operation may vary depending on the general health status of the patient, the method used and the graft material applied. The healing process includes the following steps:
First Week
In the first few days after the operation, it is important for the patient to rest and avoid heavy activities.
Control appointments are followed up regularly.
First Month
Swelling and bruising usually decrease after the first week.
It is important for the patient to pay attention to oral hygiene and maintain oral care as recommended by the doctor.
First Three Months
The process of bone graft integration and bone formation continues.
The implant placement process can be planned.
Six Months and After
After the implant is placed, the implant is expected to integrate with the bone.
Full recovery usually takes between six months and one year.
Pain Control and Other Healing Processes
Pain Control
Postoperative pain is usually mild to moderate. Painkillers prescribed by the doctor can be used.
Cold Application
A cold compress can reduce swelling and relieve pain.
Rest and careful nutrition
Rest and a soft, healthy diet are important in the first few days.
Complications and Precautions
Infection
During the healing process, it is important to take the antibiotics recommended by the doctor regularly against the risk of infection.
Swelling and Bruises
It is possible to reduce swelling and bruising with cold application and rest.
Graft Related Problems
It is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations for proper integration and placement of the graft material.
Post-operative care is critical to support the patient’s healthy recovery process. The patient can support a healthy recovery process by following the doctor’s instructions, following regular check-ups and contacting the doctor immediately in case of any concerns.
Healthy Implant Infrastructure and Smile Aesthetics
Sinus lifting is an effective surgical intervention that significantly improves smile aesthetics by creating a healthy implant substructure for patients with bone deficiency in the upper posterior tooth region. This procedure can improve the success of implant treatment by providing patients with a more solid foundation and help them achieve aesthetically satisfying results.
Healthy Implant Infrastructure and Smile Aesthetics
The healthy implant infrastructure obtained with sinus lifting operation brings many advantages:
Strong and Durable Implants
Increasing the bone volume allows the implants to be placed more firmly.
Aesthetic Developments
Implants provide a natural smile aesthetics by eliminating tooth deficiency.
Functional Improvement
A healthy implant framework improves chewing function and supports the oral structure.
Long Term Results
The healthy implant infrastructure created with the sinus lifting operation ensures long-term success and satisfaction.
Step into a Healthy Smile with Sinus Lifting
Sinus lifting operation allows patients to have a healthy smile by creating a bone base suitable for dental implants. Thanks to this treatment, patients with bone deficiency problems in the upper back tooth area can have a natural and aesthetic smile.
It is important to make a detailed evaluation before the sinus lifting procedure and to create a treatment plan suitable for the general health status and special needs of the patient. This operation, performed by specialist dentists, is supported by modern technology and surgical skill to maximise patient satisfaction. Sinus lifting is a reliable solution to step into a healthy smile.
Free Consultation
Have questions about Open or Closed Sinus Lift? Our team is happy to help — free and no obligation.
Key Takeaways
- Success Rate: 95–98% graft survival
- Expected Longevity: Permanent (grafted bone integrates with native bone)
- Cost in Antalya: EUR 300–600 (closed); EUR 500–1,000 (open)
- Savings vs. Europe/US: 60–70% less than UK/Germany/US
What is a sinus lift procedure?
A sinus lift (sinus floor elevation) is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the premolars and molars by lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material beneath it. This creates sufficient bone height to support dental implants in the posterior maxilla where the sinus cavity has expanded due to tooth loss. At Stom Dental Centre in Antalya, Dr. Telman Iskender performs both open (lateral window) and closed (crestal/transcrestal) sinus lift techniques based on the amount of bone augmentation required.
Treatment at a Glance
| Procedure Time | 30–60 minutes (closed); 60–90 minutes (open) |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia; IV sedation optional |
| Recovery Period | 7–14 days initial; 4–9 months for bone maturation |
| Success Rate | 95–98% graft survival |
| Expected Longevity | Permanent (grafted bone integrates with native bone) |
| Cost in Antalya | EUR 300–600 (closed); EUR 500–1,000 (open) |
| Savings vs. Europe/US | 60–70% less than UK/Germany/US |
| Materials Used | Xenograft (bovine), allograft, or synthetic bone graft; collagen membrane; resorbable sutures |
- Procedure Time
- 30–60 minutes (closed); 60–90 minutes (open)
- Anesthesia
- Local anesthesia; IV sedation optional
- Recovery Period
- 7–14 days initial; 4–9 months for bone maturation
- Success Rate
- 95–98% graft survival
- Expected Longevity
- Permanent (grafted bone integrates with native bone)
- Cost in Antalya
- EUR 300–600 (closed); EUR 500–1,000 (open)
- Savings vs. Europe/US
- 60–70% less than UK/Germany/US
- Materials Used
- Xenograft (bovine), allograft, or synthetic bone graft; collagen membrane; resorbable sutures
Treatment Process: Step by Step
- Pre-Operative Assessment — CBCT scan measures the residual bone height beneath the maxillary sinus. The sinus anatomy, membrane thickness, presence of septa, and any sinus pathology are carefully evaluated.
- Technique Selection — If residual bone height is 5mm or more, a closed (crestal) sinus lift with simultaneous implant placement may be possible. Less than 5mm of bone typically requires an open (lateral window) approach with delayed implant placement.
- Surgical Access — For closed technique: an osteotome or specialized drill creates access through the implant site. For open technique: a lateral window is created in the buccal bone wall of the maxillary sinus using a piezoelectric surgical unit.
- Membrane Elevation — The Schneiderian membrane (sinus lining) is gently elevated from the sinus floor using specialized curettes. Careful technique prevents membrane perforation, which occurs in approximately 10–20% of cases and is managed with collagen membrane repair.
- Bone Graft Placement — Particulate bone graft material is packed beneath the elevated sinus membrane to the planned height. The graft material supports new bone formation through osteoconduction.
- Implant Placement or Closure — In the closed technique or when bone height allows, implants are placed simultaneously. Otherwise, the lateral window is covered with a collagen membrane, the flap is sutured, and implant placement is scheduled after 4–9 months of graft maturation.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Ideal Candidates
- Patients needing dental implants in the upper posterior region with insufficient bone height
- Individuals who have experienced bone loss due to long-term posterior tooth absence
- Patients with pneumatized (expanded) maxillary sinuses reducing available bone
- Those with 2–8mm of residual bone height below the sinus floor
- Patients in good general health without active sinus disease
May Need Alternative Options
- Patients with active sinusitis or chronic sinus infection (must be treated first)
- Heavy smokers who are unwilling to quit for the treatment period
- Individuals with previous sinus surgery that has significantly altered the sinus anatomy
- Patients requiring radiation therapy to the maxillary region
Benefits and Considerations
Benefits
- Enables dental implant placement in areas previously considered impossible due to insufficient bone
- High success rates comparable to implants placed in native bone
- Simultaneous implant placement possible in many closed sinus lift cases, reducing treatment time
- Regenerated bone becomes permanent and integrates with the existing jaw structure
- Avoids the need for removable dentures in the upper posterior region
- Well-established procedure with over 30 years of clinical documentation
Considerations
- Sinus membrane perforation occurs in 10–20% of cases and requires intra-operative repair with collagen membrane
- Delayed implant placement after open sinus lift requires a healing period of 4–9 months
- Post-operative nasal congestion and minor bleeding from the nose may occur for 2–3 days
- Patients must avoid blowing their nose forcefully, sneezing with mouth closed, or using straws for 2 weeks
- An ENT evaluation may be needed if sinus pathology is detected on the pre-operative CBCT scan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between open and closed sinus lift?
Can implants be placed at the same time as a sinus lift?
How long does a sinus lift take to heal?
Is a sinus lift a safe procedure?
Does a sinus lift hurt?
What type of bone graft is used for sinus lifts?
How much does a sinus lift cost in Turkey?
Can I fly after a sinus lift?
The sinus lift has transformed implant dentistry in the posterior maxilla. Patients who were once told they did not have enough bone for implants now have a predictable surgical solution. I perform both open and closed techniques regularly, and the choice always depends on precise CBCT measurements. With proper case selection and meticulous membrane handling, we achieve graft survival rates above 95% at our clinic.Dr. Telman IskenderDDS, Oral Surgery Specialist, 20+ Years Experience — Stom Dental Centre, Antalya
Scientific References
- Tatum H Jr. Maxillary and sinus implant reconstructions. Dental Clinics of North America. 1986;30(2):207-229.
- Pjetursson BE, Tan WC, Zwahlen M, Lang NP. A systematic review of the success of sinus floor elevation and survival of implants inserted in combination with sinus floor elevation. Journal of Clinical Periodontology. 2008;35(8 Suppl):216-240.
- Stacchi C, Andolsek F, Berton F, et al. Intraoperative complications during sinus floor elevation with lateral approach: a systematic review. International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants. 2017;32(3):e107-e118.
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Last reviewed: June 2026
