DEXA Scan (Bone Densitometry & Body Composition)
The gold standard for measuring bone density and analysing body composition — fast, painless and with very low radiation
What is a DEXA Scan?
DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a quick, non-invasive scan that uses two low-dose X-ray beams to precisely measure bone mineral density and body composition. It is the internationally recognised gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk.
Beyond bone health, DEXA provides the most accurate clinically available measurement of your body composition — breaking down exactly how much fat, lean muscle and bone you carry, and where. It's a powerful tool whether you're managing a health condition, tracking a fitness journey, or simply want an objective baseline.
Key Benefits
- Gold Standard Accuracy: The most reliable test for bone density and body composition
- Very Low Radiation: A fraction of the dose of a standard chest X-ray
- Fast & Painless: Most scans completed in 3-7 minutes, fully clothed
- Early Detection: Identifies bone loss before a fracture occurs
- Track Your Progress: Repeat scans precisely monitor treatment, training or weight-management results
3-7 minutes
Scan duration
Very low dose
Less than a chest X-ray
Painless
No injections or contrast
Our DEXA Services
Bone Mineral Density (BMD)
Precise measurement of bone density at the spine and hip to diagnose osteoporosis and osteopenia, calculate your T-score and Z-score, and assess your fracture risk.
Body Composition Analysis
Whole-body scan measuring total and regional body fat percentage, lean muscle mass and bone mass — far more accurate than scales, calipers or bioimpedance devices.
Osteoporosis Monitoring
Serial scans to track bone density over time and measure how well osteoporosis treatment or lifestyle changes are working.
Fitness & Weight Management
Objective tracking of muscle gain and fat loss for athletes, bodybuilders and anyone on a structured training or weight-management program.
Who Should Have a DEXA Scan?
Bone Density Testing is Recommended For:
- Women aged 65+ and men aged 70+
- Post-menopausal women with risk factors
- Anyone with a previous minimal-trauma fracture
- Long-term corticosteroid (steroid) users
- People with a family history of osteoporosis
- Conditions affecting bone health (e.g. thyroid disorders, coeliac disease, rheumatoid arthritis)
Body Composition Analysis is Ideal For:
- Athletes optimising training and performance
- Anyone starting or tracking a weight-loss program
- Monitoring muscle loss (sarcopenia) with age
- Assessing health risk from fat distribution
- Establishing an objective health baseline
Medicare rebates may apply for eligible bone density scans with a valid referral. Body composition scans are privately billed. Call us on (03) 8899 9868 to check your eligibility.
What to Expect During Your DEXA Scan
Arrival & Check-in
Arrive 15 minutes early for registration. Bring your referral, Medicare card, and complete any required forms.
Positioning
You'll lie comfortably on a padded table, fully clothed. Our technologist will position you for the areas being scanned — no injections, no enclosed spaces.
The Scan
A scanning arm passes slowly above you while you lie still. The scan is completely painless and takes just 3-7 minutes.
Results
Our expert radiologists analyse your scan and produce a detailed report, including bone density scores or full body composition breakdown, sent promptly to your referring doctor.
How to Prepare for Your DEXA Scan
Before Your Scan
- Stop calcium supplements 24 hours before your scan
- Avoid a DEXA within 1–2 weeks of a barium study or contrast CT
- Tell us if there is any chance you may be pregnant
- Eat and drink normally — no fasting required
What to Wear
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Avoid clothing with zips, buttons, buckles or metal
- Jewelry and metal objects will need to be removed
What to Bring
- Referral from your doctor
- Medicare card and insurance cards
- Previous bone density results (if available)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for a DEXA scan?
A referral is required for Medicare-rebatable bone density scans. For privately billed body composition scans, call us on (03) 8899 9868 to arrange your appointment.
Is a DEXA scan covered by Medicare?
Medicare rebates apply to bone density scans for eligible patients with a valid referral. Body composition scans are privately billed - contact us for pricing.
How often should I repeat a DEXA scan?
Typically every 1-2 years for bone density monitoring, depending on your results and your doctor’s advice. Body composition scans can be repeated as often as needed to track progress.
Can I have a DEXA scan if I am pregnant?
No. Although the dose is very low, DEXA uses X-rays, so please tell our staff if you are or might be pregnant.
Ready to Check Your Bone Health or Body Composition?
Book your DEXA scan today — fast, accurate answers about your bones, muscle and body fat from expert radiologists.