Expert pacemaker care with ongoing monitoring and support.

What is a Pacemaker Implant?
A pacemaker is a small device placed under the skin of your chest that helps regulate your heartbeat. During the procedure:

• Leads (wires) are inserted through a blood vessel into your heart.
• The pacemaker is positioned under the skin and connected to the leads.
• The device monitors your heart rhythm and sends electrical pulses as needed to keep your heart beating properly.

Most people feel some soreness, mild swelling, or bruising near the incision. These usually improve within 1–2 weeks. You may also notice a slight ridge along the incision or the outline of the pacemaker under your skin.

Recovery in the Hospital

• You may stay a few hours or overnight so our team can monitor your heart and make sure your pacemaker is working correctly.
• You may walk around with assistance, and your heart rhythm will be checked.
• Tests like an X-ray or electrocardiogram (ECG) may be performed to ensure the pacemaker and leads are in the right place.

Recovery at Home
Your doctor will give you instructions to help your healing at home:

Activity

• Rest when tired, but walking is encouraged.
• Avoid lifting your arm on the pacemaker side above shoulder level for a few weeks.
• Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, or activities that strain your chest or upper arm until cleared.
• Ask your doctor when it is safe to drive, return to work, or resume sexual activity.

Medicines & Diet

• Follow instructions for all medicines, including any new prescriptions or when to restart blood thinners.
• Eat a normal diet unless advised otherwise.

Incision Care

• Keep dressings clean and dry; shower 24–48 hours after surgery if allowed.
• Do not swim or soak the incision for the first 2 weeks unless cleared.
• Leave any medical tape on until it falls off naturally.

Device Safety

• Carry your pacemaker ID card at all times.
• Keep certain electrical or magnetic devices at a safe distance (your doctor will advise).
• Inform all healthcare providers that you have a pacemaker before tests or procedures.

Follow-Up Care
Follow-up is essential for your safety and the long-term function of your pacemaker:

• First check-up: usually 1 month after implant
• Routine follow-ups: every 6–12 months (may include remote monitoring)
• Always report any unusual symptoms, alarms, or vibrations from your pacemaker

Possible Complications
Pacemaker procedures are generally safe, but it’s important to know potential risks:

• Infection, swelling, or bleeding around the incision
• Device or lead problems (displacement, malfunction)
• Heart rhythm changes or heart problems
• Rarely, allergic reactions or pacemaker syndrome (when upper and lower chambers beat out of sync)

Call your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Severe pain, swelling, or redness at the incision
• Pus or fever
• Dizziness, fainting, or trouble breathing
• Unusual pacemaker alarms or vibrations

Call 911 for emergencies such as loss of consciousness or severe difficulty breathing.

Long-Term Care

• Pacemaker batteries typically last about 10 years; replacement may require a minor procedure.
• Regular monitoring and check-ups keep your device working safely and effectively.
• Following these guidelines helps you return to daily activities safely while protecting your heart.