What are zygomatic implants and when are they used?

If you have been told you have insufficient upper-jaw bone for regular dental implants, zygomatic implants may be a life-changing alternative. Unlike conventional implants that sit in the jawbone, zygomatic implants are anchored in the dense cheekbone (zygoma), offering a stable foundation for a full arch of fixed teeth without the need for major bone grafting. This article explains what they are, who can benefit, and what the procedure involves—written with UK patients in mind.

What exactly are zygomatic implants?

Zygomatic implants are longer than standard dental implants—typically 30 to 52.5 mm—and are designed to engage the zygomatic bone, which is the prominent bone of the cheek. Developed by Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark in the 1990s, these implants bypass the resorbed upper jaw and use the naturally strong cheekbone for support. Usually, two to four zygomatic implants are placed on each side, often combined with conventional implants in the front of the jaw, to support a fixed bridge or denture.

When are zygomatic implants used?

They are primarily indicated for patients with severe atrophy (bone loss) of the maxilla (upper jaw), often classified as Cawood-Howell class V or VI. Common causes include:

• Long-term denture wear, which accelerates bone resorption
• Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) leading to tooth loss and bone deterioration
• Trauma or congenital defects that have left insufficient bone
• Failed previous implants or sinus grafting

For these patients, conventional implant placement would require extensive bone grafting—often from the hip or skull—with a healing period of 6–12 months before implants can be placed. Zygomatic implants offer a single-stage solution, reducing overall treatment time significantly.

How do zygomatic implants differ from regular implants?

Regular implants are placed into the alveolar bone of the jaw. When that bone is too thin or soft, grafting is needed to build it up. Zygomatic implants avoid this by anchoring into the zygoma, which is almost always dense enough. The surgical approach is more complex—requiring a specialist prosthodontist or oral surgeon—and the implants are placed at an angle, passing through the sinus cavity. Despite the complexity, reported outcomes are good: an umbrella review of seven systematic reviews found zygomatic implant survival ranging from 95.2% to 100% in maxillae that had not been resected, falling to 78.57% where the maxilla had been resected for tumour surgery (Ramezanzade et al., 2021). Read those figures carefully: they are a range across different reviews rather than a single ten-year survival rate, the follow-up periods behind them vary, and survival (the implant is still in place) and success (healthy bone and soft tissue around it, and no sinus complication) are different measures.

Who is a suitable candidate?

Ideal candidates are those with:

• Severe upper-jaw bone loss that precludes conventional implants without extensive grafting
• Good general health and adequate cheekbone quality (assessed via CT scan)
• Realistic expectations and commitment to oral hygiene
• Non-smokers or those willing to quit, as smoking impairs healing

Patients with uncontrolled diabetes, active cancer, or heavy smoking may not be suitable. A thorough evaluation at a specialist centre is essential. Zygomatic placement should be planned from a recent CT scan rather than a panoramic X-ray, and assessed by the surgeon who would actually operate — ask how often they perform the procedure, and what alternatives they considered before recommending it.

What does the procedure involve?

The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation. The surgeon makes an incision in the gum to expose the bone, then drills a precise channel through the sinus into the zygomatic bone. The implant is inserted and tightened, and the gum is sutured. Often, a temporary fixed bridge is attached on the same day, so you leave with teeth. After 4–6 months of osseointegration, a permanent zirconia or porcelain bridge is fitted. The entire process from surgery to final restoration typically takes 6–8 months — considerably quicker than the grafting route, which adds a separate healing period for the graft to mature before implants can even be placed.

What are the risks and recovery?

As with any surgery, there are risks: sinus perforation, infection, nerve injury (rare), or implant failure. However, in experienced hands, complications are uncommon. Recovery involves swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for a few days, managed with painkillers and cold compresses. A soft diet is advised for 2–4 weeks. Most patients return to work within a week. Long-term care is similar to regular implants—brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups.

How much do zygomatic implants cost in Turkey vs the UK?

In the UK, zygomatic implant treatment can cost £15,000–£30,000 per arch due to the specialist expertise and laboratory fees. In Turkey, the same treatment is commonly quoted in the region of £6,000–£10,000 per arch, typically covering the implants, surgery, a temporary bridge, and the final restoration. Indicative market ranges for comparison only — not a quotation, and not specific to any clinic. Because this is a two-stage treatment, check what the quoted figure assumes about the second visit, the final bridge material, and the cost of returning if a review is needed; ask, too, which implant system will be used and get the answer in writing.

Are zygomatic implants the right choice for you?

Zygomatic implants are not for everyone, but for those with severe bone loss, they can be transformative. They eliminate the need for painful grafting, reduce treatment time, and provide a stable, fixed smile. If you have been told you are not a candidate for regular implants, it is worth seeking a second opinion from a specialist who performs this technique regularly. Take your CT scan with you, and ask each clinician to explain not only whether zygomatic implants are possible but whether they are the least invasive option that would work in your case. Readers considering treatment in Antalya can arrange an assessment with this site's disclosed clinical partner, Taki Dent.

Frequently asked questions

How long do zygomatic implants last?

An umbrella review of systematic reviews reported zygomatic implant survival ranging from 95.2% to 100% in maxillae that had not been resected, falling to 78.57% where the maxilla had been resected (Ramezanzade et al., 2021). Those reviews do not report a single ten-year figure, and survival (the implant is still in place) and success (healthy bone and soft tissue around it, and no sinus complication) are different measures. Like regular implants, they can last many years if you maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular check-ups.

Is the surgery painful?

The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, so you feel no pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild to moderate, managed with prescribed painkillers and ice packs. Most patients report less pain than expected.

Can anyone get zygomatic implants?

No. Suitable candidates must have adequate cheekbone density and good general health. A CT scan is essential to assess bone quality. Patients with uncontrolled medical conditions or heavy smoking habits may not be suitable.

How many zygomatic implants are needed?

Typically, 2–4 implants per side are placed, often combined with 2–4 conventional implants in the front of the jaw. The exact number depends on your bone anatomy and the type of restoration planned.

Do I need to stay in Turkey for the whole treatment?

No. The initial surgery requires 5–7 days for implant placement and fitting of a temporary bridge. You then return home for 4–6 months of healing. A second visit of 7–10 days is needed for the final permanent bridge.

What if my zygomatic implant fails?

Failure is uncommon, but it does happen. If it occurs, the implant can usually be removed and replaced with a longer one or a different technique. Your surgeon will discuss contingency plans during your consultation.