Internal-External Sinus Lift Surgery
Sinus lift surgery is performed when the bone surrounding the upper lateral teeth lacks sufficient volume to support a dental implant.
Dental implantation requires a certain thickness of the bone surrounding the teeth to achieve the highest possible success rate for the procedure.
How is the sinus lift surgery performed?
Specifically, we will lift the sinus membrane back to its position before the tooth extraction, and then proceed with bone augmentation. Bone augmentation is the process through which the dentist rebuilds the damaged bone. Ultimately, the bone will be reconstructed, and the dental implant can finally be placed.
What does the internal-external aspect refer to and what is the difference between internal and external sinus lift surgery?
Internal sinus lift surgery is employed when the thickness of the remaining bone is at least 4-5mm. The procedure involves creating a hole through which bone augmentation will be performed. This lifts the sinus membrane, mentioned earlier, by a few millimeters to achieve the necessary thickness for the dental implant placement. Complications are minimal, the procedure has a very low level of invasiveness, and the healing period is short and relatively trouble-free.
External sinus lift surgery, on the other hand, is performed when there is significant bone resorption. Resorption refers to the loss of bone. In this case, a small window is created to expose the sinus membrane, which is then carefully lifted, followed by bone augmentation.
Post-intervention recommendations
Our recommendation is for the patient to consume plenty of liquids and soft foods in the first 3 days after the surgery, making the chewing process as easy as possible. After the initial 3 days, the patient can return to a normal diet, but it is advisable to avoid hard-textured foods.
Regarding tooth brushing, it is advisable to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse the mouth with mouthwash.
Physical exertion is not recommended until 3 days after the surgery, and even then, it should be at a low intensity. High-intensity physical activities can be resumed only after 14 days from the surgery.