I have been approved for lap band! My dr. Requested inpatient and my insurance approved me for outpatient. I'm fine with outpatient but my doctor's office said they have to call the hospital and see if I can be outpatient. Shouldn't they know this already? Aren't most people outpatient for lap band?

They always have to be prepared for complications. I went in as a 23 hour out patient and ended up there three days with dry heaves. Basically it is an outpatient procedure but if you are high risk or they feel that there may be a need to keep you it has to be submitted or your insuance will not pay if he decides later on that you need to stay.

I was submitted for inpatient through my insurance and was approved. According the hospital that I am going to Lap Band is inpatient. Good Luck with your new journey!

My surgeon always does bands as an overnight stay, bypass as a 2 night stay.

My doctor also insists on inpatient. He does a swallow test the next morning before he discharges.

The hospital said that I could have it done outpatient there. My insurance says if there are any complications and I need to stay longer, I will be able to.

I had outpatient but wouldnt recommend it.

My dr requires inpatient for all bands and as the above post said - outpatient isn't recommended. I think I could've stayed there another day or 2 to be more comfortable. My first few days home were horrible and the pain meds at home are nothing compared to what you get at the hospital. I slept better at the hospital for sure! The ride home really aggravated things too. So personally - I would try to get the inpatient approval because it is worth it! (Everyone's pain is different...I've heard some people say they never needed pain meds or only needed them for a few days. I feel I have had it a little rough than most so please don't think that yours will be terrible. Just be prepared for a possible stay.)