Buccal massage is a non-invasive facial treatment that targets the buccal pad to enhance facial contouring and relieve tension in facial muscles. It promotes lymphatic drainage, improves circulation, and alleviates TMJ pain, with benefits including better facial definition and muscle relaxation. Preparation requires avoiding fillers or Botox two weeks prior, and the treatment involves muscle warming, lymphatic drainage, and the massage itself, often enhanced with skincare products. Prices range from $150 to $500, depending on the practitioner’s expertise and location.

Buccal massage is a revolutionary treatment that focuses on enhancing your jawline and overall facial structure. This non-invasive procedure has gained popularity as a more affordable alternative to buccal fat removal, offering a sculpted look without the downtime. In this article, we will explore the benefits of buccal massage, what to expect during the treatment, and how to prepare for your session.

What Is a Buccal Massage?

A buccal massage is a specialized treatment that targets the buccal pad, a pouch of fat tissue nestled between your cheekbone and jaw. This unique massage technique focuses on releasing tightness in the facial muscles surrounding the buccal pad while manually draining lymphatic fluid. The result? A temporarily more contoured and chiseled appearance.

According to esthetician Raquel Medina-Cleghorn, “The massage works on the muscles, helping to smooth them out and relax the tension holding them tight.” This intraoral approach—where the practitioner also massages the inside of the mouth with gloved hands—allows for deeper access to facial muscles. By working from within, the massage can effectively relieve tension and promote a more sculpted look.

Unlike traditional facial massages that only manipulate the outer layers of the skin, buccal massage provides a more comprehensive treatment. It not only enhances your facial structure but also contributes to relaxation and emotional well-being by alleviating stress held in facial muscles.

The Benefits of Buccal Massage

Buccal massage offers a range of benefits that go beyond just aesthetic improvements. Here are some of the key advantages you can expect from this innovative treatment:

• Enhanced definition between the cheekbones and jawline: The massage helps to create a more pronounced contour, giving your face a sculpted look.
• A more lifted and sculpted appearance: By relaxing tight facial muscles, buccal massage can elevate your overall facial structure.
• Relaxation of the facial muscles: The treatment targets tension in the facial muscles, promoting relaxation and comfort.
• Enhanced blood circulation: The techniques used during the massage stimulate blood flow, which can lead to healthier-looking skin.
• Brighter and more ‘awake’ looking skin: Improved circulation can result in a radiant complexion, helping you look refreshed.
• Reduced pain stemming from temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) and tension headaches: By alleviating muscle tension, buccal massage can provide relief from discomfort associated with TMJ.
• Relief from sinusitis: The massage can help drain excess fluid and relieve pressure in the sinuses.
• Emotional stress relief: Since tension often accumulates in the face due to stress and emotions, releasing this tension can lead to an emotional release, enhancing your overall well-being.

Overall, buccal massage is not just about looking good; it’s also about feeling good. The combination of physical and emotional benefits makes it a worthwhile treatment for anyone looking to enhance their facial aesthetics and overall health.

How to Prepare for a Buccal Massage

Preparing for a buccal massage is essential to ensure you get the most out of your treatment. Here are some important steps to follow before your appointment:

• Avoid fillers and Botox: It’s recommended to refrain from getting any fillers or Botox injections within two weeks prior to your buccal massage. This helps prevent any migration of the injections that could affect the results.
• Skip abrasive skin treatments: In the weeks leading up to your appointment, avoid any abrasive or ablative skin treatments, such as lasers or microneedling. These can irritate your skin and affect the massage’s effectiveness.
• Consider your pregnancy status: If you are in your first or third trimester of pregnancy, it’s best to hold off on the massage. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding any treatments during pregnancy.
• Assess your skin condition: If you have broken skin due to chronic conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis, it may be wise to postpone the massage until your skin is healed.
• Communicate any discomfort: If the idea of an intraoral massage makes you uncomfortable, discuss your concerns with your esthetician. They can adjust the treatment to ensure your comfort.

By taking these preparation steps, you can enhance your experience and ensure that your buccal massage is both safe and effective. Always remember to communicate openly with your esthetician about any concerns or questions you may have.

What to Expect During the Treatment

When you arrive for your buccal massage, it’s important to know what to expect during the treatment to help you feel more comfortable and informed. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Warming up the Muscles

The treatment typically begins with techniques aimed at ‘waking up’ your lymphatic system. This can include various methods such as using a facial yoga ball or gentle knuckling motions to warm up the muscles. For instance, the esthetician may pinch your skin lightly to increase oxygenation and stimulate blood flow. These initial steps are designed to prepare your facial tissues for the upcoming massage.

Lymphatic Drainage

Following the warm-up, the massage transitions into a more rigorous phase focused on lymphatic drainage. This part is essential for liquefying loose connective tissue in your face. The esthetician may use warm tools, like a Gua Sha, to move lymphatic fluid from your shoulders, neck, jaw, cheeks, and forehead towards the lymph nodes located near your ears. It’s crucial to use the right amount of pressure, as lymphatic fluid is close to the skin’s surface.

Buccal Massage

The core of the treatment is the buccal massage itself, which usually lasts about 5 to 15 minutes. During this phase, the esthetician will massage the buccal pad and surrounding muscles, such as the masseter, applying gentle squeezing and stretching motions to encourage lymphatic drainage. Many clients find this part surprisingly comfortable and stabilizing, as it focuses on relieving tension in the facial muscles.

Finishing Touches

The final phase of the treatment includes additional lymphatic drainage techniques and optional enhancements to improve your skin’s appearance. Estheticians may apply serums or use LED light therapy, while others might finish with a cool Gua Sha or a microcurrent device for added benefits. After the treatment, you should notice immediate results, with the best effects becoming apparent in the following days.

Overall, the buccal massage is a soothing experience that not only enhances your facial contour but also promotes relaxation and well-being.

Meet The Experts in Buccal Massage

When it comes to buccal massage, having experienced professionals can make all the difference in achieving the best results. Here are some of the experts in the field:

• Joseph Carrillo: A renowned makeup artist and facial sculpting expert, Joseph specializes in various facial techniques, including buccal massage. His expertise allows clients to achieve sculpted looks while ensuring comfort throughout the treatment.
• Raquel Medina-Cleghorn: Based in New York, Raquel is a certified esthetician with extensive training in Dr. Vodder’s Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Neolifting Buccal Massage, Gua Sha Facial Fusion, LightStim LED, and ProCell Microchanneling. Her diverse skill set enables her to provide a comprehensive approach to facial treatments.
• Gianna Graham: Also a New York-based esthetician, Gianna works at FaceGym on the Upper East Side. She is known for her hands-on techniques and personalized approach, ensuring each client receives tailored care during their buccal massage sessions.

These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, making them ideal choices for anyone looking to explore the benefits of buccal massage. Their dedication to enhancing facial aesthetics and promoting overall well-being ensures that clients receive top-notch care.

The Cost of Buccal Massage

The cost of a buccal massage can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, the experience of the practitioner, and whether the treatment is part of a larger facial package. Here’s a breakdown of what you can generally expect:

Buccal massages are typically performed as a 5-15 minute service within a facial or as a standalone treatment. Prices for facials that include buccal massage generally range from $150 to $500. This price range reflects the expertise of the esthetician, the quality of the products used, and the overall experience offered during the session.

For example, celebrity esthetician Joseph Carrillo charges around $275 for his Sculpting Energetic Lifting Facial, which includes buccal massage techniques. On the other hand, Raquel Medina-Cleghorn’s facials start at about $500, reflecting her extensive training and specialized skills.

It’s worth noting that while the cost may seem high, many clients find the benefits of buccal massage—such as enhanced facial contouring and relaxation—make it a worthwhile investment in their self-care and beauty regimen.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Buccal Massage

What is a buccal massage?

A buccal massage is a treatment that targets the buccal pad, releasing tension in facial muscles and promoting lymphatic drainage for a more contoured appearance.

What are the benefits of buccal massage?

Benefits include enhanced definition between cheekbones and jawline, relaxation of facial muscles, improved blood circulation, and relief from TMJ pain.

How should I prepare for a buccal massage?

Avoid fillers or Botox two weeks prior, skip abrasive skin treatments, and consult your esthetician if you’re pregnant or have skin concerns.

What can I expect during the buccal massage treatment?

Expect a warm-up phase, rigorous lymphatic drainage, the buccal massage itself, and finishing touches with skincare enhancements.

Who are the experts in buccal massage?

Experts include Joseph Carrillo, Raquel Medina-Cleghorn, and Gianna Graham, each with extensive training and experience in facial treatments.

How much does a buccal massage cost?

Prices typically range from $150 to $500, depending on the location and the practitioner’s expertise.