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.

Important Medication Safety Note

Do NOT take over-the-counter pain medications unless your doctor specifically says it is safe.

  • NSAIDs (such as Advil®, ibuprofen, naproxen, or Aleve®) can harm the kidneys, worsen heart failure, raise blood pressure, and increase bleeding risk.
  • Many patients with kidney disease, heart conditions, or those on blood thinners should avoid NSAIDs entirely.
  • Even medications sold without a prescription can be unsafe for some patients.

Always check with your cardiologist or nephrologist before taking any pain medicine, including Tylenol®, Advil®, or other over-the-counter products. 

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? Update your record via the manufacturer’s patient portal or hotline.

2. Remote Monitoring (The App)

Your doctor may monitor you remotely using an app on your smartphone.

  • What it does: Sends data from your heart monitor to your clinic.
  • What it cannot do: Change or reprogram your device.

When to Call for Help

Call 9-1-1 Immediately

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

Call Your Doctor

  • Infection: Red streaks, pus, warmth, or fever lasting more than 2–3 days.
  • Bleeding: The incision continues to bleed or is very painful.
  • Questions: Concerns about your device or travel plans.