Eldorado Hills Thermography Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Thermography

What is thermography?

Thermography, also known as Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI), relies on a highly sensitive infrared camera to measure and map heat across the surface of the body. Since inflammation, increased blood flow and nerve activity each alter skin temperature, thermal images can highlight physiological patterns that may warrant a closer look.

Is thermography safe?

Yes. The camera simply receives the heat your body naturally emits. There is no radiation, no compression and no injections, and nothing comes into contact with your body, so thermography can be repeated as often as your healthcare provider advises.

Does thermography replace a mammogram?

No. Thermography examines physiology (heat and blood-flow patterns), whereas mammography examines anatomy (structure). Each test delivers different information. Thermography works best as an adjunct, alongside the screening plan you and your physician decide on.

Who reads my images?

Your images go to board-certified medical doctors who specialize in reading thermal images. They prepare a written report that comes back to you, and we encourage you to share it with your healthcare provider.

How long does an appointment take?

Allow roughly 30 to 45 minutes for a breast study and up to about an hour for full body imaging. Some of that time is a brief acclimation period so your skin temperature can stabilize before the images are captured.

How do I prepare for my scan?

Steer clear of sun exposure, exercise, hot showers, saunas, massage, deodorants, lotions and smoking for the time frames listed on our procedure page. Each of these alters skin temperature and can affect image quality.

How often should I have a breast thermography scan?

Most women set a baseline with an initial study and a follow-up about three months later. Once a stable baseline is confirmed, annual imaging is typical unless the reading physician suggests a different interval.

Is thermography covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans do not cover thermography. Many clients pay with a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA). We give you a receipt you can submit for possible reimbursement.

Can men have thermography?

Yes. Full body, upper body, lower body, thyroid and maxillofacial imaging are offered to both men and women.

Can I have thermography if I have breast implants or am nursing?

Thermography can be done with implants and is non-invasive for nursing mothers. Please let us know about implants, pregnancy, nursing or recent surgery when you book so we can schedule your study at the right time.

Still Have Questions for Eldorado Hills Thermography?

We are glad to talk through your situation before you book. Visit our Contact Us page, review pricing, or read about the thermography procedure.

Thermography is an adjunctive screening tool. It is not a replacement for mammography or other diagnostic imaging recommended by your physician, and it does not diagnose cancer. Please continue to follow the screening guidance of your healthcare provider.