Sinus Lift

Right After Surgery

• Bite down gently but firmly on the gauze pads placed at the surgical site. Change gauze every 30–45 minutes as needed.
• Avoid disturbing the area: do not touch, rinse, or spit for the first 24 hours.
• Apply an ice pack to your cheek (20 minutes on / 20 minutes off) for the first 24–48 hours to reduce swelling.

Activity & Rest

• Rest with your head elevated on pillows for the first 48 hours to minimize bleeding and swelling.
• Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, or strenuous activity for at least 1 week.

Medications

• Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed to prevent infection.
• Use pain medication (prescribed or over-the-counter) as needed.
• If a decongestant or nasal spray is prescribed, use it as directed to keep sinuses open and reduce pressure. (We recommend Zyrtec and Sudafed.)

Avoid These

• NO nose blowing for at least 2–3 weeks. If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open to reduce sinus pressure.
• Do not smoke or vape—smoking severely delays healing and increases risk of complications.
• Avoid using straws or any activity that creates suction in your mouth for at least 2 weeks.

Diet

Stick to a soft food diet for the first several days.

• Examples: yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies (no straw), soups (lukewarm).
• Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that might disturb the surgical site.

Oral Hygiene

• Do not rinse or brush near the surgical site for the first 24 hours.
• After 24 hours, gently rinse with salt water (½ tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) 3–4 times/day, especially after meals.
• You may gently brush other areas of your mouth, avoiding the surgical area.

Follow-Up

• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so your surgeon can monitor healing and determine when you’re ready for implant placement.