Recovering from a Sinus Lift Procedure

For many patients needing upper jaw implants, a **Sinus Lift** (or sinus augmentation) is a necessary prerequisite step. It is a procedure that sounds intimidating but is routine, predictable, and highly successful.

The maxillary sinuses are air-filled cavities located just above your upper back teeth. When these teeth are lost, the sinus floor often drops, leaving insufficient bone height for an implant. A sinus lift involves gently lifting the sinus membrane and packing bone graft material underneath to create a solid foundation.

While the surgery is performed under anesthesia and is painless, the recovery requires specific care to prevent the graft from dislodging.

The Golden Rule: Do Not Blow Your Nose

This is the most critical instruction. For **2-3 weeks** after surgery, you must avoid creating pressure in your nose. Blowing your nose creates a pressure spike that can tear the healing sinus membrane or displace the bone graft granules.

• If you need to sneeze, do it with your **mouth open** to vent the pressure.
• Dab a runny nose gently; do not wipe or blow.
• Avoid using straws (suction) or playing wind instruments.

Managing Swelling and Bruising

Some swelling is normal and typically peaks on day 3. You may also see bruising under the eye or along the jawline. This is a normal part of healing.

Use ice packs on the outside of your cheek (20 mins on, 20 mins off) for the first 24 hours to minimize this.

Medication Protocol

We will prescribe:

• **Antibiotics:** Crucial to prevent infection in the graft. Finish the course.
• **Decongestants:** To keep the sinus clear and reduce pressure.
• **Pain Relief:** Usually ibuprofen or paracetamol is sufficient.

Warning Signs

Contact us immediately if you experience:

• A sudden gush of fluid or 'sand' (bone granules) from your nose.
• Fever or increasing pain after day 3.
• Persistent bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure.

Don't let bone loss stop you. With expert care, a sinus lift is a safe bridge to a permanent smile. Contact Dental Implants London to plan your restoration.