Liver scan for accurate liver health assessment
If you’re worried about ongoing liver symptoms, an assessment can help you understand what’s happening. We provide non-invasive liver scans with clear explanations, practical next steps and non-judgemental care.
- Painless, non-invasive scan using FibroScan technology
- Often recommended after abnormal liver blood tests or fatty liver concerns
- Usually completed quickly, with clear next steps after your scan
- Referral, preparation and result guidance provided before your appointment
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What is a liver scan?
A liver scan is a non-invasive test used to assess liver health. We perform this using FibroScan technology, which measures liver stiffness and fat levels through a small probe placed on the skin. The scan can help detect signs of fatty liver, fibrosis and early liver disease.
When a liver scan may be recommended
A liver scan can help assess liver health when you have abnormal blood results, known risk factors or simply want a clearer picture of your liver health. FibroScan measures liver fat and stiffness, helping identify early changes that may need monitoring or treatment.
Abnormal liver test results
If recent blood tests show abnormal liver function, a FibroScan can provide more detailed information. Unlike a standard ultrasound, which provides a broader image of the liver, FibroScan specifically measures liver fat and stiffness to help assess the risk and stage of liver damage.
- Assess liver fat, stiffness, fibrosis and possible liver scarring.
- Provide further information when liver function tests are abnormal.
- Support earlier investigation, treatment or ongoing monitoring.
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Ongoing or unexplained symptoms
Liver conditions do not always cause obvious symptoms. A scan may be worthwhile if you have unexplained symptoms, concerns about your liver health, or simply want to understand your current liver health more clearly.
- Ongoing fatigue, abdominal discomfort or unexplained symptoms.
- Concerns about liver health even when symptoms are mild or absent.
- Assessment alongside blood tests, medical history and other investigations.
Risk factors for liver disease
Lifestyle and health factors can contribute to fat buildup and liver damage over time. A liver scan may be useful if you are concerned about factors that could affect your liver.
- Excess alcohol consumption or concerns about your drinking.
- Weight, diet or metabolic factors associated with fatty liver disease.
- Viral hepatitis, medications or other known liver disease risk factors.
What a liver scan detects and monitors
A liver scan helps detect and monitor conditions that affect the liver, supporting early diagnosis, treatment decisions and long-term management.
How a liver scan is performed
A liver scan is a simple, non-invasive procedure using a specialised probe and wave-based technology to assess liver health quickly and comfortably.
Preparation and positioning
You will be asked to lie on your back with your right arm raised. Gel is applied to the right side near the rib area to prepare for the scan.
Probe placement and scan
A small probe device is placed on the skin. It sends gentle waves into the liver to measure stiffness and fat levels using FibroScan technology.
Measurements and assessment
Multiple readings are taken to ensure accuracy. This helps assess liver tissue, detect abnormalities and support diagnosis and monitoring.
Results and next steps
Results are reviewed by your doctor, often during the same visit. You will receive clear information and guidance on any further tests or treatment.
What to expect before, during and after your liver scan
A liver scan is a quick, non-invasive procedure. Understanding what happens before, during and after can help you feel prepared and at ease.
Before your procedure
Before your procedure
You will be asked not to eat, drink, smoke or chew for at least 4 hours before your scan. Water is allowed. This helps ensure accurate results and avoids the need to repeat the procedure.
During your procedure
During your procedure
The scan takes around 15 minutes. You will lie on your back while a probe is placed on the right side near your ribs. The device sends gentle waves through the liver to measure stiffness and fat levels.
After your procedure
After your procedure
Once the scan is complete, you can return to normal activities. If a consultation with a doctor or nurse is required, it will be booked separately to review your results.
Recovery and aftercare
Recovery and aftercare
There is no recovery time needed after a liver scan. Your care team will explain your results and discuss any next steps, including monitoring or further testing if required.
Before your procedure
You will be asked not to eat, drink, smoke or chew for at least 4 hours before your scan. Water is allowed. This helps ensure accurate results and avoids the need to repeat the procedure.
Procedure preparation
To ensure accurate results, you will need to fast before your liver scan. Simple preparation helps avoid delays or the need to repeat the procedure.
Benefits of a liver scan
A liver scan offers a fast, non-invasive way to assess liver health, helping provide clear answers without the need for more complex procedures.
Non-invasive and comfortable
A liver scan is quick and comfortable, with no needles or sedation required. This helps reduce stress and, in many cases, avoids the need for more invasive procedures.
Fast results and clear answers
Results are often available during or shortly after your appointment, helping you understand your liver health and next steps without delay.
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Supports early detection and monitoring
The scan helps detect conditions early and monitor changes over time, supporting better diagnosis, treatment and long-term care.
Is a liver scan safe?
Yes, a liver scan is a very safe, non-invasive procedure performed without needles, sedation or anaesthetic. It uses ultrasound-based technology to assess liver health, with no radiation exposure or surgical risk. It is widely used in clinical settings and allows your specialist to evaluate your liver safely with minimal discomfort.
How a liver scan works
A liver scan uses a small probe placed gently on the skin near your ribs. The probe sends wave-based signals into the liver to measure stiffness and fat levels, helping your doctor assess liver health without surgery, injections or sedation.
- No needles, sedation or anaesthetic required
- Most patients can return to normal activities straight away
- Usually completed quickly, with minimal discomfort
Liver scan limitations
While a liver scan is safe, it may not be the right test for every patient or every liver concern. Some factors can affect the accuracy of results, which is why your doctor or specialist may consider your medical history, symptoms and other test results before recommending next steps.
- Results may be affected by body composition, fluid retention or some medical conditions
- Your doctor may recommend blood tests or specialist review alongside your scan
- If a liver scan is not suitable, your care team can explain other options for assessment
Arrange your liver scan appointment
If you’re ready to understand your liver health, our team is here to help. Book your appointment online today.
Why choose Moonee Valley Specialist Centre
Our team combines clinical expertise with a patient-first approach, delivering accurate liver scans and clear guidance at every step.
Specialist-led care you can trust
All liver scans are delivered by an experienced medical team with specialist training in gastroenterology and hepatology, ensuring accurate assessment and reliable results.
Fast access and efficient service
We offer streamlined appointments and minimal wait times, helping you move from testing to results and next steps without unnecessary delays.
Clear results and ongoing support
We focus on helping you understand your results in plain English, with clear next steps and support for monitoring or treatment if needed.
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One stop, streamlined care
From liver scan to results and next steps, we provide a simplified process with minimal appointments, helping you get the care you need.
Accreditations
Moonee Valley Specialist Centre is supported by recognised medical registrations, professional memberships and industry associations.
Feedback from our patients
Real experiences from patients who chose our clinic for liver scans and specialist care across Melbourne.
Clinical memberships and partnerships
Our specialists are affiliated with leading hospitals and professional organisations across Australia, reflecting our commitment to high standards of care.
Ready to book your liver scan?
Take the next step towards understanding your liver health. Contact our team to book a liver scan or find out more about the procedure and cost.
The team behind your care
Our team of gastroenterologists and nurses provide clear, supportive care, guiding you from diagnosis through to treatment and ongoing management.
Doctor referrals
Referrals help ensure appropriate care. Contact our reception team for guidance on booking and requirements.
Other related services we offer
Supporting services that may be recommended alongside your liver scan, helping with diagnosis, treatment and ongoing management of digestive and liver conditions.
FAQs
We’ve answered common questions to help you feel prepared and confident before your liver scan.
Do I need to fast before a liver scan?
Yes, you will need to avoid eating, drinking, smoking or chewing for at least 4 hours before your liver scan. You may drink water during this time. Fasting helps ensure accurate results and reduces the chance of needing to repeat the procedure.
How long does a liver scan take?
The scan itself typically takes around 15 minutes. If you need a consultation with a doctor or nurse to discuss your results, this may be scheduled separately. The procedure is quick and does not require recovery time.
Is a liver scan the same as a CT scan?
No, a liver scan such as FibroScan uses wave-based technology to measure liver stiffness and fat levels. A CT scan is a different type of imaging that provides detailed cross-sectional images. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate test.
How much does a liver scan cost?
The cost of a liver scan can vary depending on your referral and individual circumstances. Please contact our reception team to obtain current pricing and discuss any out-of-pocket costs before your appointment.
Is a liver scan painful or invasive?
No, a liver scan is non-invasive and generally painless. A small probe is placed on the right side of your abdomen, and most patients feel only a light touch during the procedure.
When will I get my results?
In many cases, results are available during or shortly after your appointment. If a follow-up consultation is required, our team will arrange this and provide clear guidance on your results and next steps.
Book your appointment
If you have questions or would like to book a liver scan, our team is here to help. Complete the enquiry form, and we will assist you with appointments, referrals and any information you need.
Phone Consults: 8:00am - 6:00pm
