A Safe Foundation for Advanced Bone Loss
Open sinus lifting is a surgical procedure performed in cases where the sinuses have significantly descended into the posterior regions of the upper jaw and the available bone height for implant placement is severely insufficient (typically falling below 4–5 millimeters). The objective is to regenerate the solid bone volume required for the implant.
Why is an open sinus lift performed?
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Advanced Resorption: When the jawbone in the area of teeth extracted many years ago has thinned vertically to the point of being almost paper-thin, the closed technique proves insufficient, and an open procedure becomes necessary.
How does the process work?
Under local anesthesia, the gum is opened, and a very small window (lateral window) is created in the lateral wall of the jawbone. Accessing through this window, the sinus membrane is carefully lifted upward using special instruments without tearing it. Bone particles (grafts) are placed into the large space created between the sinus floor and the membrane; the area is then covered with a protective membrane, and the gum is sutured.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an implant be placed at the same time as an open sinus lift?
If the existing bone is thick enough to hold the implant securely (providing primary stability), the implant procedure can be performed in the same session. However, if the bone is very thin, a waiting period of approximately six months is required to allow the bone graft material to harden and transform into your own bone before the implant is placed.
What should be paid attention to during the recovery process?
To avoid increasing pressure in the sinus area, it is necessary to refrain from blowing your nose, blowing up balloons, or sneezing with your mouth closed during the first few weeks.
Conclusion
Open sinus lifting paves the way for successful implant treatments by reconstructing the jawbone, even under the most challenging anatomical conditions.