Zygomatic Implant Surgery in Istanbul
Fixed Teeth Without Bone Grafting — Even With Severe Bone Loss
Zygomatic implants offer a permanent solution for patients who have been told they don't have enough bone for traditional implants. Dr. Aykut Gürel, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, performs this advanced procedure with digital guided surgery in Istanbul.
What Is a Zygomatic Implant?
A zygomatic implant is a specialized dental implant that anchors into the cheekbone (zygoma) rather than the upper jaw bone. While standard implants are 8–16 mm long, zygomatic implants range from 30–55 mm, bypassing the deteriorated jaw bone entirely.
This technique eliminates the need for bone grafting procedures such as sinus lifting, which typically require 6–12 months of healing before implants can be placed. With zygomatic implants, patients can receive fixed teeth on the same day as surgery.
Who Needs Zygomatic Implants?
- Patients with severe upper jaw bone loss where standard implants cannot be placed
- Patients who have been wearing removable dentures for many years and have significant bone resorption
- Those who have had failed bone grafting or sinus lifting procedures
- Patients who cannot or do not want to wait for lengthy bone grafting recovery (6–12 months)
- Cancer or trauma patients who have lost part of their upper jaw
Advantages Over Traditional Methods
No Bone Grafting Required
The conventional approach for patients with bone loss involves bone grafting, sinus lifting, and waiting 6–18 months for the graft to mature. Zygomatic implants skip this entire process by utilizing the dense cheekbone as an anchor point.
Same-Day Fixed Teeth
The cheekbone is extremely dense and strong. Zygomatic implants achieve high primary stability immediately after placement, allowing for same-day temporary fixed prosthesis. Patients leave the clinic with functional teeth on the day of surgery.
High Success Rate
Systematic reviews report a cumulative survival rate of 95–97% for zygomatic implants over 10 years. This is comparable to standard implants placed in healthy bone.
The Zygoma All-on-4 Protocol
The most common approach combines zygomatic and conventional implants:
- 2 zygomatic implants placed in the posterior region (one on each side)
- 2–4 standard implants placed in the anterior region (front of the jaw)
- A full-arch fixed bridge is attached to all implants
- Immediate loading — temporary fixed teeth on the same day
Treatment Process
1. 3D Assessment and Digital Planning
A cone-beam CT (CBCT) scan provides a detailed 3D view of the jaw, cheekbone, and sinus anatomy. Using specialized planning software, the exact position, angle, and length of each implant is determined before surgery.
2. Guided Surgery with Z-GO Guide
A patient-specific surgical guide is 3D-printed based on the digital plan. This guide ensures millimetric precision during implant placement, reducing surgical time and complications. Our clinic uses the Z-GO Guide system for maximum accuracy.
3. Surgery Day
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation. Zygomatic implants are placed into the cheekbone, and standard implants are placed anteriorly. Surgery typically takes 2–3 hours. Same-day temporary fixed teeth are attached before the patient leaves.
4. Final Prosthesis
After 3–6 months of healing (osseointegration), the temporary prosthesis is replaced with the final, permanent zirconia or porcelain prosthesis.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1–7: Swelling and mild discomfort managed with prescribed medication
- Week 2: Suture removal, significant improvement
- Month 1–3: Gradual return to normal diet
- Month 3–6: Final prosthesis fabrication and delivery
Why Choose Dr. Gürel in Istanbul?
- Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Specialist — not a general dentist
- Digital guided surgery with Z-GO Guide system for precision
- JD Dental Implants — specialized zygomatic implant system
- 3D CBCT planning for every case
- Located in Ataşehir, Istanbul — easily accessible, modern facility
Frequently Asked Questions
Is zygomatic implant surgery painful?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you feel nothing during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is managed with prescribed pain medication and typically subsides within 3–5 days.
How long do zygomatic implants last?
With proper care and regular check-ups, zygomatic implants can last a lifetime. The prosthetic teeth may need replacement after 15–25 years, but the implants themselves remain permanently integrated in the cheekbone.
What is the success rate?
Published studies report a 95–97% success rate over 10 years. The cheekbone provides excellent bone density and blood supply, contributing to high predictability.
How much does zygomatic implant treatment cost in Istanbul?
Treatment costs vary based on the number of implants, prosthesis type, and case complexity. Istanbul offers significant cost advantages compared to Western Europe and North America while maintaining international quality standards. Contact us for a personalized treatment plan and pricing.
Can I travel home after surgery?
We recommend staying in Istanbul for 5–7 days after surgery for the initial healing period and suture removal. After that, follow-up can be coordinated remotely, with the final prosthesis visit scheduled 3–6 months later.
Do I need to bring my X-rays or CT scan?
If you have a recent CBCT scan (less than 6 months old), you can share it for preliminary evaluation. Otherwise, we will take a new scan at our clinic as part of the initial consultation.