A liver scan uses ultrasound waves to examine the liver’s size, structure, and echogenicity. The scan is non-invasive and used as a diagnostic tool to check liver health. It helps identify potential abnormalities, including growths or focal changes within the liver tissue. This vital imaging technique is a reliable tool for detecting early signs of liver problems, such as fatty liver.

At The Scan Clinic, we provide professional liver ultrasound scans six days a week, ensuring flexible scheduling and often offering same-day appointments.

Our fast and effective diagnostic service gives you clarity about your health, allowing you to consult your doctor promptly if further evaluation is required.

The liver ultrasound scan evaluates the liver’s size and structure (echogenicity). It can also assess the gallbladder and common bile duct.

There are many possible reasons a liver scan may be required. A common reason for the liver scan is following abnormal liver function blood tests or to check for certain liver problems such as an enlarged liver. It can also be used to detect abnormalities such as a liver cyst, benign lesions or abnormal liver growths which require further diagnostic tests like CT or MRI for confirmation and confirm if they are benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

You must fast (not eat or drink anything except clear still water) for at least 6 hours before your appointment. Fasting prevents bowel gas and keeps your gallbladder expanded, ensuring clear imaging of your liver, biliary tree, and surrounding abdominal organs. You may take regular daily medications with small sips of water.

Looking for a total wellness assessment? Combine your ultrasound imaging with our comprehensive laboratory blood panels through our Private Health Screenings.

No, a GP referral is not required. You can book a private liver scan directly online or over the phone at your convenience. If you already have a referral letter or previous blood test results (such as abnormal LFTs), you are welcome to bring them to your appointment for context.

Yes. Ultrasound is one of the primary, non-invasive diagnostic tools used to detect fatty liver disease (hepatic steatosis). It clearly visualises fat accumulation in liver tissue, checks liver size, and identifies structural changes, gallstones, or cysts.

The examination takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes in our clinic. You will receive an immediate verbal explanation of the findings during your scan, followed by a detailed formal digital report sent to your email within 24 hours.

Our private liver and upper abdominal ultrasound scans start from £150. This all-inclusive fee covers the examination by a qualified specialist, a verbal summary on the day, and a formal medical report delivered within 24 hours.

An LFT blood test measures liver enzymes and protein levels in your blood to evaluate cell damage or inflammation, while a liver ultrasound provides a visual examination of the physical structure, size, tissue texture, gallstones, and potential fat buildup in the organ. Both tests complement each other to give a full picture of your liver health.

Yes, ultrasound imaging is completely safe and painless. It uses high-frequency sound waves to generate real-time digital images with zero exposure to harmful ionizing radiation (unlike X-rays or CT scans), meaning there is no recovery time needed.

If any findings require further medical evaluation, your detailed ultrasound report will outline the exact results and recommend appropriate next steps—such as sharing the report with your GP, arranging follow-up blood tests, or booking a specialist consultation.