Pacemaker Placement: Recovery at Home

Most people return to their normal routine in 1 to 2 weeks.

You may feel a hard ridge or see the outline of the device under your skin; this usually softens over the coming months.

Do not raise your arm (on the pacemaker side) above shoulder level.

You must follow this rule until your doctor says it is okay. This prevents the leads from pulling out of your heart while they heal.

Walking: Encouraged. Be active, but rest when tired.
Lifting (pacemaker-side arm): Avoid lifting more than 10–15 pounds for the first 2–3 weeks (or as directed by your clinician).
No Straining: For 3–4 weeks, avoid pushing mowers, vacuuming, golfing, or swimming.
Driving: Ask your doctor when it is safe to drive again.
Work: Expect to take 1–2 weeks off, depending on your job.

If you are unsure whether an activity is safe, use the pacemaker-side arm gently and ask your care team before increasing activity.

Showering: Okay after 24–48 hours. Pat dry. No baths/swimming for 2 weeks.
Bandages: If you have tape strips, leave them until they fall off (about 1 week).
Medicines: Do not take NSAIDs (Advil, Aleve) unless approved. Use Tylenol if needed.
Diet: Normal diet is fine. Stick to bland foods if your stomach is upset.

Living with a Pacemaker

Identification: Carry a medical ID card and wear a medical alert bracelet/necklace at all times.
Electronics: Keep cell phones 6 inches away from the device. Avoid strong magnetic fields (like MRI machines, unless your device is MRI-safe).
Inform Others: Tell all dentists and doctors about your implant before any procedure.

You pass out (loss of consciousness).
Severe trouble breathing or sudden shortness of breath.
Severe or worsening chest pain (especially if it does not go away).
High fever with worsening wound symptoms (spreading redness, swelling, pus/drainage), or you feel severely unwell.

If you believe you are having a life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1 right away.