After Sinus Lift Bone Grafting

If you have undergone a sinus lift bone grafting procedure the general postoperative instructions following surgery apply (see “After Extractions”).  There are also some important postoperative considerations for you to consider that are listed below.

• Do not blow your nose until you are seen for your postoperative examination.
• If you need to sneeze you should do so with your mouth open to limit pressure changes in your sinus cavities.
• Do not smoke. Smoking significantly slows healing.
• Do not use a straw to consume liquids.
• Take your antibiotics as directed until they are finished. Do not stop taking your antibiotics even if signs or symptoms of infection are absent.
• If you should start to feel congestion of your sinuses you may need to start taking an over-the-counter antihistamine or decongestant. Take this medication as directed.
• You will likely be prescribed a pain medication.  Take this medication as directed for control of your discomfort.
• Do not inspect your wound after surgery. Pulling on your lip or cheek may actually pull open your incision or tear the sutures from the incision which may compromise healing of your bone graft.
• Your bone graft may be made of small granules that can migrate from the graft site and in to your mouth. From time to time you may feel these granules in your mouth. This is not unusual and is of no concern early on following your surgery.