Sinus Lift Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for sinus lift: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Sinus Membrane Protection
- •The sinus membrane was lifted to place bone graft material
- •Any pressure changes in the sinus can disrupt healing
- •This is why nose blowing, straws, and flying are restricted
Sinus Lift recovery, day by day
Sinus Precautions
- Do NOT blow your nose for at least 2 weeks
- Sneeze with your mouth open to avoid pressure on the sinus
- Do NOT use straws, as suction can dislodge the graft
- Avoid bending over or lifting anything heavy
Bleeding & Swelling
- Light bleeding from the nose or surgical site is normal for 24-48 hours
- Apply ice packs 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off to reduce swelling
- Sleep with head elevated on 2-3 pillows
- Some blood-tinged nasal discharge is expected
Medication
- Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed for the full course
- Use pain medication before numbness wears off
- Use prescribed nasal spray or decongestant if directed
- Do not skip antibiotic doses
Sinus Care
- Continue avoiding nose blowing
- Use saline nasal rinse only if your surgeon specifically approves
- Avoid swimming, diving, or submerging your head
- Do not fly in an airplane for at least 2 weeks unless cleared by your surgeon
Diet
- Stick to soft foods on the opposite side of your mouth
- Avoid hot liquids for the first 48 hours
- Stay well hydrated with cool or lukewarm beverages
- No carbonated drinks for 1 week
Activity
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 1-2 weeks
- Light walking is fine after 48 hours
- No heavy lifting (over 10-15 lbs) for 2 weeks
- Avoid activities that increase sinus pressure
Healing Progress
- Swelling and bruising should be mostly resolved
- Gradually resume normal nasal hygiene
- The graft site is still maturing underneath the membrane
- Attend your follow-up appointment to check healing
Activity
- Can gradually resume normal exercise if cleared by your surgeon
- Continue to avoid contact sports for the full recovery period
- Flying is usually safe after 2-3 weeks
Long-term Healing
- Bone graft typically takes 4-9 months to fully mature
- Implant placement will be scheduled once the graft is solid
- Continue excellent oral hygiene around the surgical area
- Report any persistent sinus congestion or drainage to your surgeon
Medications you may be given
Ibuprofen 600mg
Take 1 tablet 3 times daily with food
Amoxicillin 500mg
Take 1 capsule 3 times daily until finished
Chlorhexidine Rinse 0.12%
Rinse with 15mL for 30 seconds twice daily. Do not swallow.
Always follow the exact directions your own provider gives you. This is general information, not a prescription.
When to call your provider or 911
- •Heavy, continuous bleeding from the nose that does not stop
- •Fever over 101.5°F (38.6°C) lasting more than 24 hours
- •Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication
- •Pus or foul-smelling discharge from the nose or surgical site
- •Feeling like air is passing between your mouth and nose when drinking
- •Sudden increase in swelling after initial improvement
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 7
Swelling resolves
Most swelling and bruising resolved
- Day 14
Sinus precautions relaxed
Can resume gentle nose blowing
- Day 90
Bone maturation
Graft integrating, follow-up imaging scheduled
For clinics
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