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After implantation, the site usually has minimal pain and mild swelling. Pain medication will be provided if needed. A sling is worn for a few days. For three weeks, avoid lifting over 10 lbs. and keep the elbow below shoulder level. Refrain from vigorous activity like a full golf swing for a few months. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled within a couple of weeks. Pacemakers are usually monitored in our device clinic once or twice a year, with the option of home monitoring for additional checks.
Let’s review the transplantation procedure in detail so you will know what to expect.
A pacemaker is a small device implanted in the chest to help control heart rhythm. If you’re scheduled for pacemaker implantation, you may have questions about what to expect afterward. This guide will provide you with an overview of the recovery process and long-term considerations.
After your pacemaker implantation, you’ll spend some time in a recovery area where medical staff will monitor your vital signs. You may experience some discomfort around the incision site, which is normal. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication if needed. Most patients can go home the same day or the day after the procedure, depending on their overall health and how well they’re recovering.
During the initial weeks following your pacemaker implantation, you’ll need to take it easy. Your doctor will provide specific instructions, but generally, you should avoid lifting heavy objects or raising the arm on the side of the implant above shoulder level. This precaution helps prevent the pacemaker leads from shifting before fully settling in your heart. You’ll also need to keep the incision site dry and clean to prevent infection.
As you recover, you’ll gradually return to your normal activities. Most people find that they can resume their regular routines within a few weeks. However, you may notice some changes. Many patients report feeling more energetic as their heart rhythm improves. You might also be aware of the pacemaker’s presence initially, but this sensation typically fades over time.
Regular check-ups are crucial after pacemaker implantation. Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure your pacemaker is functioning correctly and to make any necessary adjustments. Modern pacemakers can often be monitored remotely, allowing your healthcare team to track your heart’s performance without frequent in-person visits.
Living with a pacemaker doesn’t typically require significant lifestyle changes, but there are some factors to keep in mind. You’ll need to carry a pacemaker identification card and inform medical professionals about your device before undergoing any procedures. Certain electronic devices and security systems can interfere with pacemakers, so it’s important to be aware of these potential interactions.
While complications are rare, it’s essential to know the signs that warrant immediate medical attention. These include fever, swelling or redness at the incision site, persistent pain, or symptoms similar to those you experienced before the pacemaker implantation.
Trust your heart health to CVG’s twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with leading-edge diagnostic tools, a wealth of experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.
You can review our cardiologists’ pages and explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to providing quality care. You can trust that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything they can to ensure you have the best quality of life possible.
To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or 678-582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, don’t contact us online; please call 911.