Here's What to Expect in the Days, Weeks, and Months Following Your Sinus Lift

If you need dental implants, but don’t have enough bone in your jaw, you may be a candidate for a sinus lift. It sets the stage for those implants. But after surgery and before implants, you need to recover. Here’s how to do it right.

A sinus lift procedure lays the groundwork for dental implants, but like any major dental work, recovery is crucial.

Our sinus lift experts at St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants help folks throughout Covington and Slidell, Louisiana, navigate the ins and outs of post-surgery recuperation.

Dr. Caesar Sweidan and Dr. Laura Smith have compiled this comprehensive guide to walk you through what to expect in the days, weeks, and months following your sinus lift procedure.

Immediate recovery (Days 1-7)

In the immediate aftermath of your sinus lift, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort, swelling, and possibly a slight bit of bleeding from your nose or mouth. Be extra cautious with your nose and mouth for the first few days to promote proper healing.

Coping with discomfort

We typically prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter remedies to manage discomfort. To reduce swelling and tenderness around your cheeks, ensure you have soft, cold compresses at home.

Swelling and possible bleeding

To manage swelling, elevate your head as much as possible during the first few nights of recovery. If you bleed, it should subside relatively quickly, avoid blowing your nose and hard sneezing, as they can disrupt the delicate healing area.

Follow our instructions closely

We provide detailed instructions for self-care after your sinus lift and may give you saline sprays, medicated mouthwashes, and/or antibiotics to ease your recovery and prevent complications. Use these as directed, and adhere to the diet and activity restrictions we provide.

Follow-up care (Days 7-14)

Plan your post-op appointment within a week of your surgery. This visit lets us monitor your progress and address any early signs of complications.

Your follow-up appointment is more than just a routine visit. It’s a critical step in the healing process. During this visit, we examine the surgical site, check for any issues, and determine whether you need additional appointments or procedures, like removing any stitches that don’t dissolve.

Ongoing recovery (Weeks 2-8)

We can give you a general timeline for completing your recovery, but unforeseen challenges may arise that require additional attention.

Managing challenges

Although uncommon, issues like slower-than-expected healing, lingering discomfort, or inflammation can occur. If you experience any of these, call us immediately. Timely intervention can prevent minor setbacks from becoming more significant obstacles.

Oral hygiene and diet

Good oral hygiene and a nutritious diet support strong recovery. Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid rigorous flossing near the surgical site. Stick to softer foods, gradually reintroducing a balanced diet to rejuvenate your strength.

Patience and persistence

Recovery is a process, and the full integration of a dental implant can take several months. Be patient — it’s better to heal correctly than rush the process and risk complications.

Every sinus lift is different and so is the recovery timeline. For more personalized insights or clarification on any aspect of your recovery, call us at St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants or request an appointment online.