Pre-Screening Protocols

Preparing for Your Thermography Appointment

Simple Guidelines for Accurate, Reliable Results

Mandatory Protocols for Thermal Imaging

Patient Preparation:

Thermal imaging is a heat sensitive test. Anything which creates heat should be avoided prior to testing. Excessive metabolic activity, friction, or any of the activities listed below which will alter heat readings.

1 Month Prior:

  • No minor breast surgery, i.e. biopsy (We may still perform testing after biopsy. Write this in intake form.)
  • Must wait a minimum of 4-6 weeks post CoolSculpting procedures before having thermal imaging.

1 Week Prior:

  • Be cautious of too much sun exposure in order to avoid an sunburn. Appointment will need to be rescheduled should active sunburn be present.

48 Hours Prior:

  • Men with beards should shave their face and neck, as well as backs.
  • Avoid all tanning and limit sun exposure.

24 Hours Prior:

  • Avoid chiropractic care, massage therapy or acupuncture.
  • No saunas, steam baths, hot tubs, heating pads, or hot water bottles.
  • No analgesic creams or balms.
  • Do not shave underarms (Should be done prior but is not a requirement).
  • Reschedule if you are feeling feverish or ill in any way.
  • Refrain from sexual activity.

Day of Exam:

  • Do not use creams, lotions, cosmetics, ointments, deodorant, antiperspirants, powders or any other skin product
  • Please bring a hair tie to remove hair from your forehead and back of neck
  • Remove all piercings and jewelry prior to exam, unless unable to.

4 Hours Prior:

  • Avoid hot showers or shaving
  • Avoid physical therapy or exercise
  • No coffee, tea, soda, or other beverages containing caffeine. No alcoholic beverages.
  • Do not smoke cigarettes or use any product which contains nicotine
  • Do not use a heated seats.
  • Women- do not wear a bra for the 4 hours leading up to the exam.

2 Hours Before the Exam:

  • Avoid hot or cold liquids
  • Avoid chewing gum
  • Avoid using a cell phone to ear. You can text, speaker and GPS.
  • Do not wear a smart watch.
  • Avoid heated seats

Prior to and During Exam:

  • Please inform us if you have a hot flash during the session
  • Try to relax prior to and during the exam. Stress can affect your exam. 

Revision: 1.1 7/2023

Ready to Schedule?

Set Yourself Up for a Successful Screening

Following our preparation protocols ensures your thermography images are as accurate and informative as possible. By avoiding activities that can raise or lower skin temperature, you help us capture a clear and reliable picture of your body’s natural thermal patterns. Our team is here to guide you through every step so you can feel confident and ready on the day of your appointment.