Sinus lift — when it is needed, how it works, cost (2026)

What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift (jaw bone augmentation) is a surgical procedure with which we increase the bone height in the lateral part of the upper jaw.

When do we need a sinus lift?

• Bone height less than 8 mm
• Replacing the back teeth in the upper jaw
• Resorbed bone after long-term tooth loss
• Bone loss after inflammation or injury

Types of sinus lift procedures

Closed sinus lift (transcrestal): A minimally invasive procedure. The bone substitute is placed through the site where the implant will sit.

Open sinus lift (lateral): A larger procedure. We make a small window in the side wall of the jaw, lift the sinus membrane and place a larger amount of bone substitute.

The sinus lift procedure — step by step

1. Diagnostics — a 3D CBCT scan precisely shows the anatomy of the sinus and the bone height.
2. Local anaesthesia
3. Access to the bone
4. Lifting the membrane and placing the substitute
5. Sutures and recovery
6. Placing the implants

Cost

Type of procedure	Price
Closed sinus lift (transcrestal)	€250–400
Open sinus lift (lateral)	€500–800
3D CBCT scan	€80
Check-up	Free

Does a sinus lift hurt? Recovery after the procedure

During the procedure — no pain. Local anaesthesia is effective; all you feel are mild vibrations. After the procedure, mild facial swelling, occasional headaches, minor nosebleeds (1–2 days) and a sensation of pressure are possible.

Rules after the procedure (7–10 days)

• Do not blow your nose
• Avoid blowing
• Do not dive or fly for 14 days
• Sleep with your head raised
• Soft food for 7 days

Alternatives to a sinus lift

• Subperiosteal implants (€9,900 complete solution)
• Removable dentures
• All-on-4 with tilted implants

Frequently asked questions

Is a sinus lift safe? Yes. The success rate of the procedure is over 95%.

How long does the procedure itself take? Closed: 30–45 minutes; open: 60–90 minutes.

Do implants last as long after a sinus lift? Yes. Once the bone substitute has integrated, the implants are equally stable.