Before Your DEXA Scan Appointment
Before your DEXA scan appointment at Bucky Body Center, you’ll be asked to refrain from taking calcium supplements for at least 24 hours. This is to ensure the accuracy of your bone density results. It’s also important to wear loose, comfortable clothing free of metal zippers or buttons, which can interfere with the imaging.
You may be asked to complete a health history form and notify your technician if there’s a chance you’re pregnant. The scan is non-invasive and low-radiation, but safety is always a priority. Your appointment will be scheduled to ensure minimal wait time, and the process typically takes less than 30 minutes from check-in to completion.
During Your DEXA Scan Appointment
During your scan, you’ll lie flat on a padded scanning table while the DEXA machine passes over your body. The scan is completely painless and silent—many people find it quite relaxing. It typically targets your spine, hips, or full body, depending on the information needed.
The technician will guide you into position and remain nearby to monitor the scan from a control room. You’ll need to stay still for the best imaging results, but the scan usually takes just 8–20 minutes using state-of-the-art DexaFit technology. Throughout the appointment, your comfort, privacy, and understanding of the process are prioritized.
After Your DEXA Scan Appointment
After the scan, there’s no downtime—you can resume your daily activities immediately. Your scan results will be interpreted by a specialist and sent to your healthcare provider, usually within a few days. At Bucky Body Center, our expert team will also review the results with you if you’re participating in a customized wellness or body optimization plan.
The report will include your bone mineral density (BMD) score and other relevant data such as body fat percentage, visceral fat levels, lean mass distribution, and even metabolic data. These insights go far beyond what a traditional scale or BMI measurement can provide, helping guide fitness strategies, nutritional planning, and preventative health care. If needed, a follow-up scan may be recommended to monitor changes over time.
Why a DEXA Scan is a Smarter Health Tool
Unlike BMI or bioimpedance devices, a DEXA scan offers medical-grade precision by using low-dose X-ray technology to differentiate between fat, muscle, and bone tissue. It provides detailed mapping of fat distribution—especially visceral fat around the organs—and flags health risks that standard weight metrics might miss.
This makes it ideal not only for those tracking weight loss but also for athletes aiming to monitor muscle development and strength gains. Older adults benefit from early detection of bone density issues such as osteoporosis. And anyone looking to improve long-term health can use this scan to monitor trends and guide personalized interventions.
Integrated Into Your Wellness Journey
DEXA scans at Bucky Body Center are more than just a diagnostic—they’re a foundation for transformation. Whether you’re starting a fitness journey, joining a non-invasive body shaping program like CoolSculpting PLUS, or looking to support postpartum recovery, these scans offer a reliable baseline for real progress.
In combination with programs like Functional Training or the GolfFit Performance Program, DEXA insights ensure every effort you make is grounded in real data. DEXA scans are available at both Bucky Body Center, located in the Rittenhouse neighborhood of Philadelphia, and Bucky Plastic Surgery on the Main Line in Ardmore. At both locations, patients benefit from private, supportive environments that respect your privacy and deliver rapid, reliable results. that respect your privacy and deliver rapid, reliable results.
Conclusion
Understanding what to expect before, during, and after your DEXA scan appointment helps you feel confident and prepared. At Bucky Body Center and Bucky Plastic Surgery, our expert care and cutting-edge technology ensure a smooth and informative experience. Whether you’re assessing bone health, body composition, or creating a personalized wellness plan, your scan is an essential first step.
Questions We are Asked Often
- Is a DEXA scan safe?
Yes, a DEXA scan is extremely safe. It uses very low levels of radiation, even less than a typical chest X-ray. - Do I need to fast before a DEXA scan?
No fasting is required, but avoid calcium supplements 24 hours before your scan. - How long does a DEXA scan take?
The scanning process takes about 8–20 minutes, with the entire appointment usually under 30 minutes. - Can a DEXA scan detect body fat?
Yes, in addition to bone density, it measures body fat percentage, visceral fat, and lean muscle mass.
How can I use my DEXA results to improve my health?
Your DEXA scan report offers valuable insights such as fat distribution, muscle mass, and bone density. These metrics can help you tailor your fitness program, monitor bone health, or fine-tune your diet. At Bucky Body Center, your results are reviewed with you to create a clear, customized path toward your wellness goals.