DEXA Scans in Ithaca, NY
Accurate DEXA Body Scans:
Clear Insights Into Your Bone Health and Body Composition
Have you ever wondered how much of your weight is actually from muscle? How about how much of it is bone or fat? With our non-invasive medical imaging test, we provide you with detailed information about your body composition, including bone density, muscle mass, and fat distribution. This simple DEXA Scan gives us the information needed to make proactive, informed health decisions.
Monitor changes in weight, muscle, and fat over time with a DEXA scan. Keep track of your results through our APP
Track progress in weight loss or muscle gain programs
Track your body fat percentage with precision using our advanced DEXA scan—the gold standard for accurate and reliable body composition analysis
Beyond the scale: measure your true body composition with a DEXA Scan
Bone Density Screening
Bone health is essential at every age, especially if you’re at risk for osteoporosis or fractures. Our DEXA bone density screening delivers precise results that help detect changes early and guide effective prevention or treatment plans. With local access near Ithaca, you don’t have to travel far for advanced testing.
Body Composition Analysis
Knowing your body’s fat, muscle, and bone makeup can help guide weight management, fitness, and overall health goals. Our DEXA body composition analysis offers an accurate picture of your health, far beyond what a scale can show. Whether you’re monitoring progress or planning long-term wellness goals, this test provides the data you need.
Patient undergoing a DEXA scan to measure body fat, muscle, and bone density
Why DEXA Scans Are the Gold Standard of Health Measurement
DEXA scans are considered the gold standard because they go far beyond traditional methods like BMI or at-home smart scales. Instead of providing a general estimate, a DEXA scan gives a highly detailed and precise picture of your body’s composition.
The DEXA scan replaces the old Body Mass Index (BMI) score and is more precise than at-home smart scales. It is more accurate at identifying how much fat is stored around your organs, your exact muscle mass, and how much of your weight comes from bone. With this level of insight, you can understand your true health profile, not just a number on a scale.
Each scan comes with a detailed report that highlights the areas of your body needing the most attention. This allows you to set specific goals, focus your training or nutrition strategies, and track measurable progress over time.
DEXA scan machine used to measure body composition, bone density, and overall physical health
DEXA Scan Comprehensive Body Analysis for $225 at Pine Point Medical
Visceral fat: The amount of fat stored around your organs in your abdomen can be measured with a DEXA scan
Muscle mass: The amount of muscle in your body can be measured with a DEXA scan
Bone mineral density: The amount of bone density in your body can be measured by DEXA
Common Questions About DEXA Scans
What should I wear to my appointment?
For the most accurate DEXA scan results, patients should wear lightweight, comfortable clothing without any metal, such as zippers, buttons, or underwire bras. Women usually get the best results when a sports bra is worn. Athletic wear like leggings, shorts, and a fitted T-shirt is ideal. Avoid wearing jewelry, belts, or accessories during the scan.
Should I stop any of my medications?
Do not take calcium supplements within 24 hours of the scan, as they can interfere with the accuracy of the results by showing up on the scan and falsely elevating the bone density reading.
Other Medications
There’s no need to stop medications like bisphosphonates (e.g., Fosamax, Boniva), hormone replacement therapy, corticosteroids, or other routine meds
Recent Imaging or Contrast Use
If you recently had a barium study or contrast-enhanced CT or MRI, then you should wait at least 7–14 days before having a DEXA scan, as residual contrast can interfere with results.
Is there radiation in a DEXA scan?
Yes, DEXA scans do use a small amount of radiation, but it’s very low—much lower than a standard chest X-ray or a CT scan.
Here’s a quick comparison:
DEXA scan: About 1–5 microsieverts (µSv)
Chest X-ray: Around 100 µSv
Natural background radiation (daily): Around 10 µSv
What this means:
A DEXA scan exposes you to less radiation than you get in a day from natural sources like sunlight or soil.
It’s considered very safe, even for repeated use over time.
Can I have a DEXA scan if I am, or could be, pregnant?
Unfortunately, even though there is very little radiation, we do not scan pregnant women.
How often can I have a DEXA scan?
A DEXA scan for body composition can typically be done every 3 months. This interval allows enough time to see meaningful changes in body fat, lean mass, and other measurements, especially if a patient is following a specific fitness, nutrition, or medical plan. More frequent scans are generally not necessary, as body composition changes gradually over time.
How much is a DEXA scan at Pine Point Medical?
Pine Point Medical DEXA scans are $225
Is there a discount if I want more than one scan?
We offer a special package for those interested in tracking their progress over time—you can purchase two DEXA scans for $400, a savings from the regular price of $450. This discounted option is ideal for individuals who want to monitor changes in their body composition with repeat testing.
How long does the scan take?
The DEXA scan for body composition takes approximately 6 minutes to complete. During the scan, it’s important that you lie completely still to ensure accurate results. Patients check in beforehand, and immediately after the scan, your results will be printed for you. If desired, you can also schedule an optional follow-up consultation with Tess MacQueen, PA-C to review your results and discuss next steps at a later date.
Will insurance pay for the scan?
Please note that insurance does not cover DEXA scans for body composition. These scans are considered elective and are not billed through insurance. Payment is due at the time of service. Our fee for the DEXA scan may be eligible for reimbursement through FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account) funds. We recommend checking with your plan provider to confirm eligibility.
Founders Doug and Tess MacQueen, bringing compassion and care to every patient