by Rana Baroudi
Dr. Baroudi is a Board Certified Periodontist. She has successfully passed the American Board of Periodontology oral and written examinations covering all phases of periodontal disease, its treatment and dental implants. She is also an Associate Clinical Professor of Periodontology at UCSF where she enjoys teaching and lecturing on a bi-monthly basis.
Learn MoreDental implants are a modern marvel of restorative dentistry, offering patients a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution to missing teeth. However, before an implant can be placed in the upper jaw, certain conditions must be met—one of the most critical being the presence of adequate bone. For some patients, bone loss in the upper back jaw (near the molars and premolars) presents a challenge. In such cases, a sinus lift surgery may be necessary to ensure a successful implant placement.
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that increases the amount of bone in the upper jaw, specifically in the area beneath the maxillary sinuses. This is accomplished by lifting the sinus membrane upward and placing a bone graft in the newly created space. Over time, the graft material fuses with the natural bone, creating a sturdy foundation for dental implants.
When teeth in the upper back jaw are lost, the bone in that area often deteriorates due to a lack of stimulation. Additionally, the maxillary sinus naturally expands over time, leaving less room for implants. Patients who have experienced long-term tooth loss, periodontal disease, or trauma may not have sufficient bone to securely anchor an implant.
In these situations, a sinus lift procedure allows periodontists like Dr. Rana Baroudi to restore lost bone volume and make implant treatment possible, even in cases that were once considered inoperable.
Not every dentist performs sinus lift procedures—this specialized surgery is often carried out by a board-certified periodontist, like Dr. Rana Baroudi, who has advanced training in the treatment of the supporting structures of the teeth. As a Harvard-trained periodontist in San Jose, Dr. Baroudi brings exceptional precision and care to every procedure, ensuring optimal outcomes for her patients.
The first step in the sinus lift process is a thorough examination. This includes a detailed review of your medical and dental history, as well as digital imaging such as CBCT scans or panoramic X-rays. These scans allow Dr. Baroudi to assess the height and width of your existing bone and to evaluate the location of your sinuses.
If she determines that your bone is too thin or shallow to support an implant, she may recommend a sinus augmentation.
During your consultation, Dr. Baroudi will walk you through the proposed procedure, what to expect, and the timeline for healing and implant placement. She will explain the benefits and risks, answer your questions, and ensure you’re a suitable candidate for the surgery.
Patients who smoke, have uncontrolled diabetes, or are undergoing certain medical treatments may require additional evaluation before proceeding.
To promote healing and minimize the risk of infection, you may be advised to stop smoking and avoid certain medications before surgery. Antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses might also be prescribed. It’s essential to follow Dr. Baroudi’s instructions carefully to prepare your body for the best possible outcome.
The procedure itself is typically performed under local anesthesia, with sedation available for patients who prefer additional comfort. Here’s a general overview of what the process involves:
The entire procedure usually takes 1–2 hours and is done on an outpatient basis in Dr. Baroudi’s state-of-the-art San Jose practice.
Recovery from a sinus lift surgery varies from patient to patient, but most experience mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and possibly a small amount of bleeding. Dr. Baroudi will provide post-operative care instructions, which typically include:
It generally takes 4 to 9 months for the grafted bone to integrate fully and become stable enough to support a dental implant. Once the area has healed, Dr. Baroudi will proceed with implant placement.
The type of bone graft used can influence healing time and integration. Common types include:
Dr. Baroudi will recommend the grafting material best suited for your individual needs.
As with any surgical procedure, sinus lift surgery carries certain risks. These may include:
However, when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon like Dr. Baroudi, complications are minimal. If a sinus membrane is inadvertently perforated, it can usually be repaired during the same procedure, or the surgery may be rescheduled to allow healing.
Though it adds a step in the treatment timeline, the benefits of a sinus augmentation are substantial:
Patients who undergo the procedure often report that it was well worth the wait, especially when they regain their ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
If you’ve been told that you lack sufficient bone in your upper jaw for implants, or if you’ve experienced bone loss due to periodontal disease or trauma, you may be a good candidate for a sinus lift procedure. Dr. Rana Baroudi specializes in advanced periodontal and implant treatments and offers personalized care tailored to your needs and goals.
A consultation is the best way to find out if this approach is suitable for your case. With modern imaging, minimally invasive techniques, and Dr. Baroudi’s expertise, patients in San Jose and surrounding communities have access to top-tier care and life-changing results.
If you’re considering dental implants but have concerns about bone loss in your upper jaw, don’t lose hope. A sinus lift surgery may be the key to unlocking your candidacy for long-lasting, stable implants.
At Cambrian Periodontics and Dental Implants, Dr. Rana Baroudi and her team are here to support you every step of the way—from diagnosis and planning to surgery and follow-up. With her compassionate approach and surgical precision, you can feel confident you’re in expert hands.
