What to Expect at Your First DEXA Scan.
If you’ve booked your first DEXA scan, congratulations — you’re about to take one of the most accurate, science-based steps toward understanding your body and improving your health.
Whether your goal is to lose fat, build muscle, or simply learn what’s really going on beneath the surface, a DEXA body composition scan gives you data that goes far beyond what a scale or mirror can show.
Still, it’s totally normal to wonder what the appointment will be like. Here’s exactly what to expect from start to finish — so you can walk in confident and leave with insights that actually matter.
What Is a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is a quick, noninvasive test that measures your:
- Body fat percentage
- Lean muscle mass
- Bone density
- Visceral fat (deep abdominal fat)
How to Prepare for Your Scan
Good news: DEXA scans are incredibly easy to prepare for.
Follow these simple steps to ensure you get the most accurate and comfortable experience:
- Fill Out Your Intake Form
Before your appointment, complete your DEXA CHS intake form (you’ll receive it by email or text after booking).
This form helps us understand your goals, health background, and what you’re hoping to learn from your scan. Filling it out in advance speeds up your check-in and ensures a smoother visit. - Wear Comfortable Clothing
Choose lightweight, athletic clothes without metal (no zippers, buttons, or underwire). - Avoid Intense Workouts Right Before
Exercise can cause temporary fluid shifts that slightly affect your results. - Come Hydrated — But Not Overhydrated
Drink normally throughout the day, and avoid large meals within an hour of your scan. - Remove Jewelry and Metal Accessories
Metal can interfere with the imaging process, so you’ll be asked to take off watches, belts, and similar items.
That’s it! No fasting, injections, or prep drinks required. Just complete your intake form, wear comfortable clothes, and show up ready to relax.
What Happens During the Scan
When you arrive at DEXA CHS, one of our team members will greet you, confirm your intake form, and get you set up for your scan.
- Positioning: You’ll lie flat on a padded table while the scanner arm moves slowly overhead.
- Stillness: The scan takes about 6–10 minutes, and all you need to do is remain still — no tight spaces or loud noises.
- Comfort: The experience is completely painless. Most clients describe it as easier than taking a photo at the doctor’s office.
During the scan, the machine collects thousands of data points across your body — creating a detailed image that shows exactly how your fat, muscle, and bone are distributed.
Reviewing Your Results
After your scan, our team processes your data and generates your full DEXA CHS body composition report.
You’ll receive your results within approximately 45 minutes of completing your scan.
Your report includes (and more):
- Body fat percentage (total and regional)
- Lean muscle mass breakdown
- Visceral fat (deep abdominal fat)
- Bone density and strength measurements
- Comparisons to previous scans (if applicable)
Your results will be delivered digitally, allowing you to review them at your own pace and reference them anytime.
Each report is designed to be easy to read, giving you clear insight into your body composition and helping you track progress with precision over time.
How Often Should You Get Scanned?
For most people, re-scanning every 3–4 months is ideal. For major fitness changes re-scanning every month will help you track progress.
These timeframes allow enough time for real physiological change while keeping you accountable to your plan.
Athletes or clients following a specific training block may choose to scan more frequently, while others prefer an annual check-in for long-term tracking.
What You’ll Gain from the Experience
A DEXA scan gives you more than just numbers — it gives you clarity and confidence.
You’ll know:
- If your workouts are helping you gain muscle where you want it
- Whether your nutrition plan is leading to real fat loss
- How your visceral fat and bone density are changing with lifestyle improvements
Most importantly, you’ll stop guessing and start making informed decisions backed by real data.
The Bottom Line
Your first DEXA scan is quick, comfortable, and eye-opening.
In less than 15 minutes, you’ll walk away with a full picture of your body composition and a personalized roadmap for your next steps.
If you’re ready to take your fitness and health tracking to the next level, DEXA CHS in Charleston is here to help.