Bone Grafting & Implant Preparation · La Mesa, San Diego
Sinus Lift Surgery for Dental Implants
If there isn't enough bone in your upper jaw to support a dental implant, a sinus lift can rebuild it. Dr. Cvetan Mechev, DDS plans every case with 3D CT imaging for a precise, predictable outcome.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift — also called sinus augmentation — adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of your back molars and premolars, just below the sinus cavity. It's often needed when the upper jaw doesn't have quite enough bone height to safely hold a dental implant.
Dr. Mechev starts every case with a 3D CT scan to measure your existing bone and sinus anatomy precisely. During the procedure, the sinus membrane is gently lifted and bone graft material is placed underneath it — giving new bone room to form before your implant goes in.
26+ Years Experience
Dr. Mechev has performed sinus lifts and bone grafting procedures across a 26+ year career serving La Mesa and San Diego patients.
AAID Member
Dr. Mechev is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), reflecting ongoing training in implant-focused procedures.
3D CT-Guided Planning
Every sinus lift is planned from a 3D CT scan, so bone volume and sinus anatomy are mapped before any surgery begins.
Benefits of a Sinus Lift
A Stronger Foundation
Added bone volume gives your implant a solid, stable base — instead of trying to place it where there isn't enough support.
Higher Implant Success
Implants placed into adequately grafted bone have a significantly better long-term success rate than implants placed without enough bone support.
A Smile You Can Trust
Restoring bone in the upper jaw lets Dr. Mechev place implants that look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
How a Sinus Lift Works
Dr. Mechev makes a small opening in the gum and bone of the upper jaw, then carefully lifts the sinus membrane to create space. Bone graft material — synthetic, donor (allograft), or your own bone (autograft) — is placed in that space to serve as a scaffold for new bone growth.
Over the following months, that graft material integrates with your existing bone. Once healed, the site is ready for implant placement.
- 1Exam & 3D CT Scan
A full evaluation, 3D imaging, and medical history review to assess your bone and sinus health.
- 2Comfortable Anesthesia
Local anesthesia, or alternative sedation options, are discussed so you're comfortable throughout.
- 3Small Incision
A small incision in the gum tissue exposes the bone of the upper jaw.
- 4Creating the Window
A small window is carefully opened in the bone to access the sinus membrane without damaging it.
- 5Graft Placement
Bone graft material is placed beneath the lifted membrane, where it will integrate with existing bone over several months.
- 6Closing & Aftercare
The incision is sutured, and you'll receive clear aftercare instructions and any needed medication.
Wondering About Insurance?
Sinus lift coverage varies by plan. Give us a call and our team will help you understand what your insurance covers before you commit to treatment.
Ask About Your CoverageServing La Mesa & Surrounding San Diego Communities
La Mesa · El Cajon · Spring Valley · Lemon Grove · San Diego · Southern California
Sinus Lift FAQs
What is a sinus lift and why would I need one?
A sinus lift adds bone to your upper jaw so there's enough volume to support a dental implant. It's typically needed when tooth loss, gum disease, or natural anatomy has left the bone in that area too thin.
How long does recovery take after a sinus lift?
Full integration of the graft with your existing bone generally takes about six to nine months before an implant can be placed. Most patients are back to normal daily activities within a few days.
What type of bone graft material is used?
Depending on your case, Dr. Mechev may use synthetic material, donor bone (allograft), or bone from your own body (autograft). He'll walk you through the right option for your situation during your consultation.
Is a sinus lift painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, with sedation options available if you'd prefer. Most patients report manageable discomfort afterward, similar to other minor oral surgery.
Does insurance cover sinus lift surgery?
Coverage depends on your specific plan. Call our La Mesa office at (619) 337-2424 and our team will help verify your benefits before treatment begins.