Every person has two maxillary sinuses (right and left) that are located above the upper molars and premolars. After the removal of tooth, the sinus cavity will gradually expand into the surrounding bone. The available bone height (distance between gum and floor of sinus) is reduced as sinus expands. The minimum desire implant length at the molar and premolar area is 8mm. Sinus Lift procedure is indicated when the available bone height is less than 8mm.


Sinus Lift is a surgery procedure that places bone graft into the sinus cavity. This procedure can be accomplished with two different approaches: “Lateral Window” and “Osteotome” technique. In general rule, “Osteotome” technique is recommended if the implant site has at least 5 mm of available bone height. “Lateral Window” technique is more suitable when the implant site has less than 5mm of existing bone height or multiple implants are scheduled. Only doctor can determine the appropriate technique for a given situation. In some instances, implants can be placed simultaneously with sinus lift procedure.
The following diagrams are illustration of the Sinus Lift Procedure with “Lateral Window” technique and “Osteotome” technique
“Lateral Window” Technique

The gum is retracted from the bone.
“Osteotome” Technique

Drills are used to create a hole just below the sinus cavity

A window is made with high speed handpiece and bur

A special instrument is positioned

Carefully elevating the sinus membrane

Water is pumped and expands the balloon which elevates the sinus membrane

Placed bone particle with PRP into the empty space beneath the sinus membrane through the lateral window

Inserted bone particle into the empty space beneath the sinus membrane through the hole

A resorbable membrane covers the “lateral window”

Implant drills are used to shape the hole

Gum is sutured back

Implant is inserted

After approximately 4-6 months of healing period, the implant is placed