Getting an MRI? We’ve got the information you need here! An MRI is a noninvasive, radiation-free scan that delivers high-resolution soft-tissue detail to help doctors detect problems early, diagnose accurately, and plan precise treatment. MRIs are a pain-free way to create detailed, radiation-free images of your body’s internal organs and soft tissues. Preferred Imaging Centers offers MRI scans from multiple locations in Chicago, Orland Park and Elgin, Illinois.
Getting an MRI soon?
Here’s a clear, patient-friendly guide so you arrive confident and prepared—especially about removing jewelry and piercings for your safety.
Quick Prep Checklist:
Doctor’s order/prescription (if it was given to you)
Photo ID and insurance card
All metal removed: jewelry, body piercings, watches, hairpins, glasses, hearing aids, dentures, removable dental work, belts, coins, keys
Leave cards & electronics outside: strong magnets can erase credit cards and damage devices
Wear metal-free clothing (no zippers/snaps/underwire), or plan to change into a gown
Tell us in advance if you’re claustrophobic, pregnant, on dialysis, or have kidney disease
Bring a driver if you’re scheduled with sedation
Unless your doctor gives different instructions, you may eat, drink, and take your usual medications
Where We Are & What We Offer
Preferred Imaging Centers serves patients from multiple locations across Chicago, Orland Park, and Elgin, IL—and offers several MRI technology and location options combined with a dedicated and caring staff to provide you with advanced MRI image scans:
- 3T MRI (High-Field, advanced detail): excellent for neuro, musculoskeletal, and small-structure imaging.
Learn more: https://preferredimagingcenters.com/services/high-field-mri-3t/ - Open MRI (more space, less anxiety): designed to help with claustrophobia and larger body types.
Learn more: https://preferredimagingcenters.com/services/open-mri/ - High-Field MRI (1.5T): the workhorse scanner for a wide range of exams with strong image quality.
Learn more: https://preferredimagingcenters.com/services/high-field-mri/
If you’re unsure which option fits you best (e.g., Open for comfort vs. 3T for very fine detail), contact our scheduling team can help your doctor’s order align with the best scanner and location.
Jewelry & Body Piercings: Why Removal Matters
MRI uses a powerful magnet. Metal objects can move, heat, or distort images—and even “non-magnetic” pieces can still interfere with the scan.
IMPORTANT! BEFORE YOUR MRI PLEASE REMOVE:
- All rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, ankle bracelets, watches
- Body piercings (ear, nose, lip, tongue, eyebrow, navel, dermal anchors/microdermals, etc.)
- Hair accessories with metal: clips, pins, barrettes
- Fitness trackers/smartwatches, hearing aids, removable dental appliances
Can’t remove a piercing?
Call us before your appointment. We’ll advise next steps (e.g., rescheduling, alternative scanner/location, or coordinating with your provider). For your safety, we may not proceed if metal remains in the scan area.
Pro tip: Bring a small labeled container to store jewelry; remove piercings at home to save time.
Tell Us If You Have Metal Inside Your Body
Inform your doctor and our MRI technologist about any implanted or retained metal, including:
- Pacemaker/ICD, neurostimulator, insulin pump, cochlear implant
- Aneurysm clips, stents, filters, or metal plates/screws
- Surgical staples from recent procedures, prostheses, or shrapnel
- Metal exposure at work (welding, machining, grinding); if metal may have entered your eye, we may order an X-ray first
Contrast (Gadolinium): What to Know
Some MRI exams use a non-iodine contrast injected through a small IV to make images clearer.
- Tell your doctor/technologist if you’ve ever reacted to gadolinium, or if you have kidney disease or receive dialysis.
- Most patients tolerate contrast well; we’ll monitor you and answer questions on the day of your exam.
If You’re Claustrophobic (Or Just Nervous)
- Talk to us ahead of time: we can discuss comfort measures or schedule you for an Open MRI
- Music/headphones during the scan
- A companion may be able to stay in the room (after safety screening)
- Mild sedative from your doctor (you’ll need a driver)
- Focus on slow breathing; you’ll have a squeeze button to reach us instantly
What Happens on MRI Day
Check-in & Safety Form
Arrive a bit early. You’ll complete a patient history form and change into a gown if needed.
Metal Double-Check
We’ll confirm all metal items are removed and review any implants or past surgeries.
Positioning & Coils
You’ll lie on a padded table that slides into the scanner (open at both ends). A lightweight “coil” may be placed around the body part we’re imaging to boost picture quality.
During the Scan (20–90 minutes)
- Lie still—movement blurs images
- You’ll hear thumping/clicking; we provide earplugs/headphones
- You can speak with the technologist at any time; we’re watching you continuously
After the Exam
- Resume normal activities (unless you had a sedative)
- A radiologist reviews your images and sends a report to your doctor, who will discuss results with you
Eating, Drinking, and Medications
- For most MRI exams, you can eat, drink, and take your usual medications unless your doctor or our team has given you different instructions.
- If you are scheduled with sedation, follow your nurse’s guidance exactly, and bring a driver.
Common Questions
Will the MRI hurt?
No. MRI is painless. If you receive contrast, it’s a small IV—tell us if you’ve had prior reactions.
Can I bring someone?
Yes, if it helps you relax. They’ll need to pass the same metal safety screening.
How loud is it?
You’ll hear rhythmic tapping and knocking; ear protection is provided.
What if I feel uncomfortable?
Use the squeeze button to talk to us; we can pause if needed.
Ready to Schedule your MRI?
Call Preferred Imaging Centers to find your nearest Chicago, Orland Park, or Elgin location and the MRI option that fits your needs: 3T MRI, Open MRI, or High-Field MRI. We’re here to make your visit safe, comfortable, and straightforward—from preparation to results.
Trust the experts at Preferred Imaging Centers in Chicago, Elgin and Orland Park. We’re your trusted, local MRI provider!
