Recovery should not prevent you from returning to an active lifestyle. Most people return to normal activities quickly, provided they follow a few key rules to let the incision heal.

Caring for Your Incision

  • Showering: You may shower 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Pat the area dry gently.
  • No Soaking: Do not swim or take a bath for the first 2 weeks (or until cleared).
  • Cleaning: Wash daily with warm water and pat dry. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol.
  • Bandages: If you have tape strips, leave them until they fall off (usually a week). If the wound oozes, cover with a clean gauze bandage.
  • Clothing: Avoid tight clothing or jewelry that rubs against the site.

Activity Guidelines

  • Rest: Rest when you feel tired.
  • Lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects until instructed by your doctor.
  • Upper Body: Avoid strenuous upper body activity to give the incision time to heal.
  • Rough Contact: Protect the site from blows or bumps.

Note: Ask your doctor about over-the-counter pain medicine (like Tylenol or Advil) before taking them.

Living with Your Device

1. The Medical Device ID Card

You must carry this card at all times. It alerts medical and security personnel that you have an implant.

  • Temporary Card: Given to you immediately after the procedure.
  • Permanent Card: Mailed to your home in 6 to 8 weeks.

Moving? If you move or change doctors, update your record via the manufacturer's patient portal or hotline to receive a new card.

2. Remote Monitoring (The App)

Your doctor may monitor you remotely using an app (such as the myLUX Patient App) on a smartphone.

  • What it does: Sends data from your heart monitor to your clinic using Wi-Fi or cellular data.
  • What it cannot do: The app cannot reprogram or change your heart monitor settings. Only your doctor can do that securely.

When to Call for Help

Call 9-1-1 Immediately

If you think you need emergency care, specifically if:

  • You pass out (lose consciousness).
  • You have severe chest pain or shortness of breath.

Call Your Doctor

  • Infection Signs: Red streaks, pus, warmth, or a fever that lasts more than 2-3 days.
  • Bleeding: The incision continues to bleed or is very painful.
  • Questions: You have concerns about your device or plan to travel.