Enables Upper Jaw Implants
A sinus lift creates the bone height required for implants in the upper posterior jaw — often the only path to a fixed implant restoration in this area.
Leesburg, Virginia Dental Office
Sinus Lift in Leesburg, VA
Sinus Lift in Leesburg, VA. Create Space for Upper Jaw Implants with a Sinus Augmentation in Leesburg, VA Call Family First Smiles at (703) 777-1515.
Create Space for Upper Jaw Implants with a Sinus Augmentation in Leesburg, VA
A sinus lift (sinus augmentation) is a specialized bone grafting procedure for the upper jaw that creates adequate bone height in the posterior maxilla (rear upper jaw) below the maxillary sinus cavity. Tooth loss in the upper back jaw often causes the sinus cavity to expand downward (pneumatization), leaving insufficient bone depth for implants. At Family First Smiles in Leesburg, VA, Dr. Ahmed Al Attar, D.D.S. performs sinus lifts to safely elevate the sinus membrane and graft bone beneath it, enabling successful implant placement that would otherwise be impossible.
4–9mmBone Height Added
6 MonthsHealing Before Implant
95%+Implant Success After Lift
Benefits
High Predictability
Sinus lift is one of the most well-documented and successful bone augmentation procedures in implant dentistry, with implant success rates exceeding 95% when performed correctly.
Multiple Approaches Available
The lateral window approach is used for larger augmentations; the crestal (Summers) technique can be used for smaller lifts simultaneously with implant placement.
Long-Term Investment
The time invested in sinus lift and healing pays off with implants that can last a lifetime — eliminating ongoing costs of denture maintenance or bridge replacement.
Natural Bone Formation
Over 6 months, your body replaces the graft material with genuine vital bone that permanently increases jaw height for stable, lasting implant support.
Predictable Timeline
Dr. Al Attar provides a clear timeline from sinus lift through final implant crown placement, so you know exactly what to expect at every stage.
What to Expect
1. Imaging & Surgical Planning
CBCT 3D imaging precisely measures remaining bone height and sinus anatomy. The volume of graft material needed and the surgical approach are planned in detail.
2. Anesthesia
Local anesthesia completely numbs the upper jaw. Nitrous oxide sedation is available for patient comfort throughout the procedure.
3. Sinus Window Creation
A small window is created in the lateral wall of the upper jaw bone. The sinus membrane is gently lifted away from the bone to create a space below it.
4. Bone Graft Placement
Bone graft material is carefully packed beneath the elevated sinus membrane, filling the space and increasing the height of the jawbone floor.
5. Closure & Healing Period
The window is covered with a protective membrane and the gum is sutured. Over 6 months, the graft matures into solid bone ready for implant placement.
Quick Facts
Bone Added
4–12mm height increase
Healing Time
6 months before implant
Procedure Time
60–90 minutes per side
Anesthesia
Local (sedation available)
Graft Materials
Allograft / xenograft
Success Rate
95%+ implant success after lift
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a sinus lift necessary?
A sinus lift is needed when upper posterior bone height measures less than 10mm (ideally at least 12–15mm is preferred for implants). This is determined by X-ray and CBCT imaging.
Is the sinus membrane damaged during the procedure?
Dr. Al Attar carefully elevates the sinus membrane without perforating it in the vast majority of cases. If a small perforation occurs, it is repaired immediately and healing is typically uneventful.
Can implants be placed the same day as a sinus lift?
For smaller lifts with sufficient existing bone (≥5mm), simultaneous implant placement is sometimes possible. For major augmentations, staged placement after 6 months of healing provides more predictable results.
What if I have frequent sinus infections or chronic sinusitis?
Active sinus disease is a contraindication. Dr. Al Attar will require a clean bill of sinus health and may coordinate with an ENT specialist if necessary before proceeding.
Is a sinus lift painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Post-operative discomfort is typically moderate and managed well with prescribed pain medication. Most patients report it is less painful than expected.
Can I blow my nose after a sinus lift?
Avoid nose-blowing for at least 2 weeks to prevent pressure on the healing sinus membrane and graft. If you feel a sneeze coming, sneeze with your mouth open to reduce pressure.
How long until I get my implant after a sinus lift?
Typically 6 months after a major lateral window sinus lift. Dr. Al Attar confirms graft maturation with imaging before implant placement.
What if both sides need a sinus lift?
Both sides can be done in one appointment or staged. Your overall health, recovery tolerance, and treatment plan influence the decision. Both approaches are safe and effective.
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Ready to Schedule?
Call Family First Smiles in Leesburg, VA to verify benefits and schedule your visit.
(703) 777-1515