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@jer22
You are only at 6 weeks. You are going to have some swelling for quite some time so let time pass to see what long term will be.
I had my first AICD/Pacemaker implanted in 2006. I am on my 3rd device.
My EP implanted my device below my chest muscle. Why? He said because the amount of skin I had in chest area was not sufficient. He also said because I was so active chose to put below my chest muscle. Now this caused additional surgery and having it below the check muscle.
I was told it would take about 1 year for you to get used to device being in your body and also for body to encapsulate it. The amount of rise in your skin is specific to you. The amount of skin you have is you not me or someone else. The inflamation and swelling will go down.
I don't know mine is even there anymore unless I raise my left arm above my head and them my device reminds me "hay I am in here." Think positive as most all go through initial swelling and discomfort and goes away with time.
I have had one for almost 20 years now and gone through 3 surgeries.
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I'm glad I found this topic re pacemakers. I had one implanted on August 31 and the swelling has just started to lessen. I also had pain for almost all of September - could not wear my seat belt in the car. I still have some pain (not 'bad' )but it is there if I lift too much, exercise too heavily) The pacemaker was done as an emergency so I was totally unprepared for it. When discharged from hospital I received very little information re what to expect and follow-up at home instructions!! After my first nite at home I had to go to the ER the next morning.
I was horrified when I saw the surgery site It was horribly black and blue around the whole area. I also did not expect the extent of pain for the next several days.
I have had multiple surgeries over the years and never had such a terrible time post-op. Thankfully, the pain has dissipated - I'm still aware of the unit but no longer worry like I did.