MRI Orbits Scan
A private MRI scan of your orbits uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the eye sockets and their contents, without using any ionising radiation.
Written by the MyScanHub content team4 minutes reading time
From
£295
All-inclusive. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
- Consultant radiologists
- CQC registered
- GDPR compliant
- Report in 3 working days
What is an MRI Orbits Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRI Orbits Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- The eyeballs themselves
- The optic nerves connecting the eyes to the brain
- The muscles that move the eyes
- The fatty tissue within the eye sockets
- The bony structures of the orbits
- Blood vessels supplying the eye area
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the orbits.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Sudden or unexplained vision loss
- Double vision or difficulty moving one or both eyes
- Pain in or around the eyes
- Protrusion of one or both eyeballs (exophthalmos)
- Swelling or redness around the eyes
- A persistent feeling of pressure behind the eyes
- Suspected inflammation of the optic nerve
What an MRI Orbits Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Inflammation or swelling of the optic nerve (optic neuritis)
- Abnormalities in the eye muscles, which can affect eye movement
- Changes within the eyeball, such as fluid or masses
- Conditions affecting the optic nerve's sheath
- Signs of orbital masses or tumours
- Changes related to Graves' disease (an autoimmune condition affecting the eyes)
Preparing for your MRI Orbits Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to complete any necessary paperwork.
- Remove all jewellery and metal objects, as these can interfere with the MRI.
- You can typically eat and drink as normal before your scan unless advised otherwise.
- Wear comfortable clothing; you may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
Please notify the team if:
- You must inform our team if you have a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator, as these are usually contraindications for MRI.
- Let us know about any cochlear implants or other implanted electronic devices.
- Inform us if you have any metal fragments in your body, especially in the eyes.
- If you are pregnant, particularly in the first trimester, please tell us before booking.
Your report
Every MRI at MyScanHub is reported by a GMC-registered consultant radiologist. Your written report is delivered securely to your patient portal within 3 working days.
You can download the report and your images from your patient account to share with your GP, physiotherapist or specialist, or add a GP consultation to talk the findings through. How to open and share your results.
Why consider a private MRI scan for the orbits?
When you need answers quickly — or when prior imaging has been inconclusive — a private MRI at MyScanHub gives you timely access and specialist reporting without the wait.
Private scan benefits include:
- Fast access — same-day or next-day appointments, no waiting list
- Consultant radiologist report within 3 working days
- Fully-private, CQC-registered, GDPR-compliant imaging centre
- Secure online access to your report and images, easy to share with your GP or specialist
Smarter scanning. Proactive health. Peace of mind.
Step 1
Choose
Pick a scan or a programme. No GP referral required.
Step 2
Book
Select a time online — same-day availability most weekdays.
Step 3
Scan
Be seen by consultants at our Dartford, Kent imaging centre.
Step 4
Results
Consultant-led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an MRI orbit scan take?
A typical MRI scan of the orbits takes between 30 and 45 minutes to complete, depending on the specific sequences required.
Will I need contrast for my orbit MRI?
A contrast agent (gadolinium) is sometimes used to help highlight certain tissues or abnormalities. This is an optional add-on and will only be administered if deemed clinically necessary by the reporting radiologist, following a discussion with you.
Can I have an MRI if I have claustrophobia?
We understand that enclosed spaces can be challenging. Our MRI scanner is relatively spacious, and our radiographers are experienced in supporting anxious patients. Please discuss any concerns with us when you book.
When will I get my results?
Your scan images will be reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist. You can expect to receive your comprehensive report within 3 working days via your secure online patient portal. You can choose to share this report with your GP.
Do I need a GP referral?
No — MyScanHub accepts self-referral for most scans. Our consultant radiologists review every case. Some scans (e.g. contrast studies) do need a referring clinician; we'll let you know at booking.
When will I get my report?
Written reports from a GMC-registered consultant radiologist are delivered within 3 working days of your scan, often sooner. You can access the report — and the imaging — through your patient account at myscanhub.com.
Where is the clinic?
Our imaging centre is at Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford, Kent (DA9 9ST), in the Guildhall Outer Car Park — free parking, a few minutes from junction 2 of the M25 and the A2. We're open Monday to Saturday 8am–9pm and Sunday 10am–5pm. Full directions are sent with your booking confirmation.
Ready to book your MRI Orbits Scan?
Book online in minutes. Same-day and next-day slots available most weekdays in Dartford, Kent. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
At our clinic in Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford: free parking, open seven days. How to find us · All private MRI scans in Dartford & Kent