Liver size & contour
Assessment of liver dimensions, surface contour and visible enlargement or shrinkage.
Diagnostic liver ultrasound • London & St Albans
Private liver ultrasound scan
A clinically focused, radiation-free assessment of the liver and relevant nearby structures, performed by an experienced ultrasound practitioner with clear reporting and appropriate recommendations.
- No GP referral required
- London & St Albans
- Clear written report
Liver ultrasound£219Check live availability online
Non-invasiveNo needles or injections
No radiationUses high-frequency sound waves
20–30 minutesTypical examination time
Self-referralBook without a GP letter
A clear first-line investigation
What is a liver ultrasound?
A liver ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the liver and relevant nearby structures. A handheld probe is moved over the upper abdomen with ultrasound gel; the examination does not use X-rays or ionising radiation.
It can help assess abnormal liver blood tests, suspected fatty liver, upper abdominal discomfort, liver enlargement or a previously identified liver finding. Structural ultrasound findings should be interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination, blood tests and any previous imaging results.
Your examination
What can the scan assess?
The examination assesses the liver systematically, with attention to its size, contour, internal appearance and relevant visible vascular and biliary structures.
Liver echotexture
Assessment of liver brightness and texture, including visible patterns associated with fatty change.
Focal liver findings
Assessment for visible cysts, masses or other focal abnormalities requiring characterisation.
Vessels & portal region
Review of relevant visible hepatic and portal vascular structures, with Doppler where indicated.
Bile ducts
Assessment for visible intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile-duct dilatation where included and visualised.
Nearby structures
Review of the gallbladder and adjacent upper-abdominal structures where relevant to the clinical question and service scope.
Important: Ultrasound assesses liver structure but does not measure liver function and may not detect very early fibrosis or every small lesion. Blood tests, elastography, CT, MRI or specialist review may be recommended depending on the findings.
Sound-wave
imaging
imaging
Real-time • Radiation-free
When it may help
Common reasons to book
- Abnormal liver blood-test results
- Suspected fatty liver or liver enlargement
- Persistent or recurrent right upper abdominal discomfort
- Follow-up of a known liver cyst or focal finding
- Monitoring after a previous ultrasound, CT or MRI
- Clinical concern about chronic liver or biliary disease
Ultrasound is not an emergency service. Seek urgent medical help for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, collapse, confusion, marked abdominal swelling or new severe jaundice.
Before you arrive
How to prepare for your scan
Fast for 6 hours
Avoid food for six hours before the scan unless your booking confirmation states otherwise. Fasting can improve views of the liver and nearby biliary structures.
Drink still water
Small sips of still water are usually acceptable. Avoid fizzy drinks and follow the exact instructions in your booking confirmation.
Continue medication
Continue essential medication unless your clinician has advised otherwise. If you have diabetes or fasting is unsafe, contact the clinic before the appointment.
Bring useful information
Bring relevant referral letters, liver blood-test results, medication details and previous ultrasound, CT, MRI or specialist reports where available.
Your appointment
What happens during the scan?
- 1
Clinical discussion
Your practitioner confirms your symptoms, relevant history and the focus of the examination.
- 2
Ultrasound examination
You lie on the examination couch while gel and a handheld probe are used over the upper abdomen and right rib margin. You may be asked to turn, raise an arm or briefly hold your breath.
- 3
Findings and report
The main observations are explained in clear language, with a written report and relevant images provided according to the clinic’s reporting process.
- 4
Recommended next steps
If follow-up is advisable, the report may recommend discussion with your GP or hepatology team, liver blood tests, elastography, interval ultrasound, CT or MRI.
PrivateSono
Clinical expertise. Clear liver imaging.
Choose a convenient appointment in Central London or St Albans and receive a focused diagnostic examination in a respectful, confidential setting.
Book liver scanExperienced practitioners
Scans performed by appropriately trained ultrasound professionals.
High-resolution imaging
Modern diagnostic equipment with a clinically focused examination.
Clear communication
Findings explained without unnecessary jargon, with a written report.
Flexible access
Self-referral and online booking with appointments across two locations.
Clinic locations
Private liver ultrasound near you
Good to know
Liver ultrasound FAQs
Clear answers to common questions before you book.
Still unsure? Call 020 7101 3377What can a liver ultrasound show?
It can show liver size, contour and echotexture, including visible fatty change, cysts, focal lesions and bile-duct dilatation. It may also assess relevant nearby structures, but no scan detects every condition.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. PrivateSono accepts self-referrals for liver ultrasound. Please provide your symptoms, relevant medical history, medication and any previous liver blood tests or imaging results so the examination can be tailored appropriately.
How should I prepare for the scan?
You will usually be asked not to eat for six hours before the scan. Small sips of still water and essential medication are generally acceptable. Follow the exact instructions in your booking confirmation.
How long does a liver ultrasound take?
The examination commonly takes around 20 to 30 minutes, although the appointment may be longer if additional views are needed or the findings are complex.
Is liver ultrasound painful or harmful?
The scan is non-invasive and does not use ionising radiation. Most people find it comfortable, although gentle probe pressure may cause brief discomfort over a tender area.
Can ultrasound detect fatty liver or cirrhosis?
Ultrasound can identify changes associated with fatty liver and may show features of established chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. It cannot reliably exclude early fibrosis; blood tests or liver elastography may be needed.
When will I receive my results?
Your practitioner can explain the main observations at the appointment, and PrivateSono aims to provide a written report with relevant images promptly. The exact delivery time will be confirmed by the clinic.
How much is a liver ultrasound?
The liver ultrasound scan is currently listed at £219. Check the booking page for the latest price and appointment availability before confirming.
Appointments in London & St Albans
Ready to book your liver ultrasound?
Choose your clinic, view live availability and confirm your appointment online.