What to Expect During Your First DEXA Scan Appointment

If you’ve booked your first DEXA scan, congratulations—you’re taking a huge step toward understanding your body at a deeper level. A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan provides the most accurate measurement of body composition, including fat mass, lean muscle mass, bone density, and visceral fat.

At KALOS in San Francisco, we make the process fast, comfortable, and informative. Here’s exactly what to expect during your visit so you can walk in feeling confident and prepared.

1️⃣ How to Prepare for Your Scan

What to Wear

• Comfortable clothing with minimal metal (e.g., leggings and a sports bra or t-shirt)
• Avoid bras with underwire or tops with zippers/snaps
• You may be asked to remove jewelry, belts, or watches

Can You Eat or Drink Before?

• Yes, but for the most consistent results, avoid large meals or excess water 1–2 hours before your scan
• Coffee is fine—just skip sugary add-ins that might cause water retention

Should You Exercise First?

• Avoid intense workouts right before your scan
• Heavy exercise can cause fluid shifts and inflammation that may slightly affect your results

2️⃣ What Happens During the Appointment

🕒 Total time: ~15–20 minutes

The scan itself takes about 6 minutes, but allow time for check-in and post-scan review.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:

• Check-In: Fill out a quick health history form and meet your scan technician
• Lie Flat on the DEXA Table: You’ll lie on your back, fully clothed, as the scanner arm passes over your body
• Stay Still: No poking or prodding—the scan is totally painless
• No Claustrophobia: The scanner is open and flat (not an enclosed space like an MRI)

3️⃣ What the Scan Measures

Your DEXA scan report includes a detailed breakdown of:

• Total body fat percentage
• Lean muscle mass
• Visceral fat (the fat stored around your organs)
• Regional fat and muscle (e.g., arms, legs, trunk)
• Bone mineral density (BMD)

This allows for hyper-targeted training, nutrition, and longevity strategies based on your unique body data.

4️⃣ After the Scan: Review and Next Steps

• You’ll receive a color-coded body map and a detailed report with your numbers
• Our team will explain your results in plain English
• We’ll help you create a personalized plan to meet your goals
• Want to track progress? We'll help schedule a follow-up scan every 1–2 months based on your needs

5️⃣ Common Questions

Is it safe?

Yes. DEXA uses a very low dose of X-ray radiation—you’re exposed to less radiation than a cross-country flight.

Can I get a scan if I’m pregnant?

No. We do not perform DEXA scans on anyone who is pregnant or may be pregnant.

Is it covered by insurance?

No. DEXA scans at KALOS are not covered by insurance. We operate on a self-pay model to provide fast, accurate, and direct access to high-quality body composition analysis.

Book Your DEXA Scan in San Francisco at KALOS Today

If you’re ready to take control of your health with the most accurate body composition analysis available, it’s time to book your DEXA scan at KALOS. Whether you’re looking to get lean, build muscle, improve performance, or optimize longevity, our advanced technology and expert guidance will help you get there.

Schedule your scan today at KALOS—because real data leads to better results.

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