Benefits
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Deep Release
Reaches the lower layers of muscle
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Chronic Resolution
Dissolves long-held patterns
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Circulation
Deep pressure stimulates blood flow
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Mobility
Joint and muscle flexibility widens
About
Deep tissue massage is a slow, firm-pressure massage that works on the deeper layers of muscle, where long-standing tension settles. It focuses on the areas that carry the most load through the day — the back, neck, shoulders and hips — aiming less at all-over surface relaxation and more at releasing tight spots one by one.
What happens during the session?
- A short consultation: You tell your therapist where you feel tension and how much pressure you prefer.
- Warm-up: Warm towels and oil prepare the surface muscles before the deeper work begins.
- Deep work: Using thumbs, forearms and elbows, the therapist softens muscle fibres and connective tissue with slow, steady pressure. The pace is noticeably slower than a classic massage.
- Closing: The session ends with long, calming strokes, followed by herbal tea.
The session lasts 50 minutes and the pressure level is deep. You set the pressure together with your therapist throughout — just say if you would like it lighter or firmer.
Who is it for?
Deep tissue massage suits guests with chronic muscle tension, people working at an intense, stressful pace, regular massage guests and those who find classic massage too light. Back, neck and shoulder tension from long hours at a desk or on your feet is the most common focus.
If this is your first massage, we recommend starting with the Classic Swedish Massage; deep tissue work is more effective once your body is used to massage.
When to be careful
If any of the following applies to you, let us know before your appointment and, where needed, consult your doctor:
- Pregnancy
- Recent surgery, a fracture, a sprain or a new injury
- Varicose veins, a clotting disorder or blood-thinning medication
- Open wounds or skin conditions such as eczema in the treatment area
- Fever or an acute illness
Deep tissue or another massage?
- Classic Swedish Massage: softer pressure and long, flowing strokes for all-over relaxation; 50 or 70 minutes.
- Sports Massage: for active, athletic bodies; the pace is adjusted to before or after training or an event.
- Medical Massage: begins with a short assessment and focuses on chronic tension in one specific area.
- Spot Massage: a 30-minute session focused on the back and shoulders, the neck and head, or the legs — for when time is short.
Deep tissue massage works on tension settled along the whole back and shoulder line, with a slow pace and firm pressure.
After your session
- Mild muscle tenderness for 24–48 hours is normal.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous exercise on the same day.
- If tenderness lasts or increases, ask for lighter pressure next time and consult your doctor if needed.
About Deep Tissue Massage
Does deep tissue massage hurt?
The pressure is deep, and some spots may feel intense but bearable — a "good hurt". It should never feel sharp or stabbing. Tell your therapist as soon as anything is uncomfortable; the pressure is adjusted together throughout the session.
Will I be sore after a deep tissue massage?
Mild muscle tenderness for 24–48 hours after the session is normal. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous exercise on the same day helps. If the tenderness lasts, choose lighter pressure next time.
What is the difference between deep tissue and classic Swedish massage?
Classic Swedish massage uses softer pressure and long, flowing strokes for all-over relaxation. Deep tissue massage works on chronic tension in the deeper muscle layers with a slow pace and firm pressure. If it is your first massage, we recommend starting with Classic Swedish.
Can I have a deep tissue massage while pregnant?
Deep-pressure techniques are not recommended during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, let us know before your appointment and consult your doctor.
How long does a Deep Tissue Massage session take?
A Deep Tissue Massage session takes 50 minutes. You can choose the duration that suits you when booking.
Who is Deep Tissue Massage suitable for?
Deep Tissue Massage is suitable for chronic muscle tension sufferers, those under intense stress, regular massage clients and guests accustomed to firm pressure. Please let us know before your appointment if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or have a chronic condition.
Which areas does Deep Tissue Massage focus on?
The treatment focuses on back, neck, shoulders and hips. You can agree your priority areas with your therapist at the start of the session.
What is included in a Deep Tissue Massage session?
The session includes warm towels, localized pressure and herbal tea.
Where in Istanbul and Izmir can I book Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep Tissue Massage is available at the Aqua Plus branches in Bagcilar, Fatih, Sisli, Zeytinburnu, Pendik and Bayrakli. All branches are open seven days a week (10:00 – 22:00 / 23:00); choose the branch nearest to you when booking.
What are the benefits of Deep Tissue Massage?
Key effects: deep release, chronic resolution, circulation and mobility. How long the effect lasts varies by person and with regular treatment.
How do I book Deep Tissue Massage?
You can book online by selecting a branch, date and time slot, or contact the branch directly by phone or WhatsApp. We recommend booking ahead to avoid waiting at peak times.
Where to Get Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage is available at all six Aqua Plus branches. Choose the one closest to you; the booking form opens with the branch and service already selected.
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ISTANBUL · BAğCıLAR
Deep Tissue Massage in Bağcılar
Near: Güneşli, Kirazlı, Yenibosna
M1B metro line (Bağcılar–Kirazlı), the Mahmutbey–Bağcılar axis and the Basın Ekspres connection; metrobus via Yenibosna/Şirinevler.
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ISTANBUL · FATIH
Deep Tissue Massage in Fatih
Near: Çapa, Aksaray, Vatan
Reachable via the T1 Kabataş–Bağcılar tram (Fındıkzade / Çapa–Şehremini stops) and the M1A metro line (Aksaray).
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ISTANBUL · ŞIşLI
Deep Tissue Massage in Şişli
Near: Mecidiyeköy, Gayrettepe, Esentepe
The M2 metro (Şişli–Mecidiyeköy), M7 metro (Mecidiyeköy–Mahmutbey) and the Mecidiyeköy metrobus stop are within walking distance.
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ISTANBUL · ZEYTINBURNU
Deep Tissue Massage in Zeytinburnu
Near: Cevizlibağ, Topkapı, Maltepe Mahallesi
Reachable via the Zeytinburnu M1A metro / T1 tram interchange, the Cevizlibağ metrobus stop and the E-5 highway.
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ISTANBUL · PENDIK
Deep Tissue Massage in Pendik
Near: Kaynarca, Sapanbağları, Kurtköy
Reachable via the M4 metro line (Kaynarca–Pendik), the Marmaray Pendik station and the D-100 / coastal road.
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IZMIR · BAYRAKLı
Deep Tissue Massage in Bayraklı
Near: Adalet, Mansuroğlu, Manavkuyu
