.webp)
Zygomatic implants solve a specific anatomical problem: when the alveolar bone of the upper jaw has resorbed to the point where conventional implants cannot achieve adequate primary stability, the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) provides an alternative anchorage structure. The zygomatic bone is dense, predominantly cortical, and does not resorb with tooth loss. This makes it a reliable foundation for implants even in patients who have been edentulous for decades.
Anatomy: The Zygomatic Bone and Why It Works
The zygoma forms the prominence of the cheek and contributes to the lateral orbital wall and the zygomatic arch. It is dense predominantly cortical bone with a robust blood supply from multiple vessels. A zygomatic implant (35–50mm in length) is placed with its tip engaging the inferior body of the zygomatic bone. The cortical layers of the zygomatic body provide multi-cortex engagement — the implant locks into dense cortical bone rather than the trabecular bone that standard implants use for primary stability. For the patient-facing overview of candidacy criteria and questions to ask any clinic, see our patient guide to advanced implant options.
Surgical Approaches
Classic extrasinus approach: The implant trajectory passes external to the maxillary sinus. Dazzle uses the extrasinus approach for most zygomatic cases as it reduces post-operative sinusitis risk.
Sinus slot (intrasinus) approach: The implant passes through a slot cut in the lateral sinus wall. Used in specific anatomical configurations but carries higher theoretical sinusitis risk.
Quad-zygoma configuration: Four zygomatic implants (two per side), providing both anterior and posterior arch support without any conventional implants.
Pre-Surgical Planning
Every zygomatic case at Dazzle is planned from CBCT data before surgery. The CBCT defines zygomatic bone volume and optimal implant trajectories, sinus floor position, residual anterior alveolar bone, and anatomical relationships to nerves and vessels. A surgical guide based on the virtual plan is printed in the in-house laboratory and used to guide drilling in theatre.
Published Outcomes
Pooled published data: 10-year implant survival 95–98%, comparable to conventional implants in good bone. The primary complication is sinusitis — published rates 2–8% across studies, most resolving with antibiotic management without requiring implant removal.
FAQs
Q1: How is a zygomatic implant placed — does the surgeon go through the cheek?
No. The implant is placed entirely from inside the mouth. Nothing penetrates the cheek externally.
Q2: Will zygomatic implants affect my cheekbone appearance?
No. The implant body is entirely internal. Nothing protrudes through the cheek or is visible externally.
Q3: How long does the surgery take?
A standard zygomatic case: approximately 3–4 hours under IV sedation. Quad-zygoma: 4–5 hours.
Q4: What if only one side needs a zygomatic implant?
Unilateral zygomatic placement is appropriate when bone loss is asymmetric. The configuration is determined from the CBCT.
