What is Flapless Surgery?

Greg asks:

I went for an implant consultation with my surgeon and he suggested flapless surgery? What is this and how is it different than regular surgery for implants? Is flapless surgery preferred, all other things being equal?

Answered by: Dr. Peter Sabolch

Beverly Hills, CA

Hi Greg,

Modern dental implant surgery employs new techniques that attempt to provide function, esthetics, and comfort with a minimally invasive surgical approach. Flapless implant surgery has been one of the techniques proposed to fulfill these requirements.

Without getting very technical, depending on the anatomy and the area of the implant, based upon radiographs and catscans, it is possible to place an implant through a small opening in the gum, the approximate diameter of the implant. This type of procedure is called flapless implant surgery.

"Regular implant surgery" as you call it, is a more invasive surgical approach where an incision is made in the gums to reveal the quality and anatomy of the bone underneath to place the implant.

The decision as to whether to use the flapless approach or not is up to your surgeon. If possible, the flapless approach is more conservative with a quicker recovery time for the soft tissue, as it will require no stitches. But, the advantages and disadvantages should be discussed with your surgeon and the ultimate decision should lie with the surgeon.

Peter Sabolch, DMD, fellow, ICOI

www.drsabolch.com