Sometimes patients need implants in the upper jaw, but there may not be enough bone or the sinuses may be too close to the implant site. Sinus lift surgery, performed by our maxillofacial surgeon or periodontist, adds bone to your upper jaw, between your jaw and the maxillary sinuses. To make room for the extra bone, the sinus membrane is lifted upward. Sinus lifts have become common during the last 15 years as more people get dental implants to replace missing teeth.