Any surgical procedure involves risks and potential complications. Complications may become serious and life threatening in some cases. Complications can develop during the procedure or your recovery. General risks of surgery The general risks of surgery include: Adverse reaction or problems related to sedation or medications, such as an allergic reaction and problems with breathing Bleeding, which can lead to shock Infection Potential complications of a pacemaker implant Complications of a pacemaker implant include: Blood clot or air bubbles in the vein Collapsed lung Heart or nerve damage Pacemaker malfunction requiring your doctor to reprogram it or replace it Punctured heart or lung Tearing an artery or vein Leadless pacemakers are relatively new to most patients, but device safety and dependability have been studied for several years. Risks include damage to the heart or vein and movement of the pacemaker. A patient with a leadless pacemaker does not have risks associated with the wires breaking or complications related to the generator, such as infection. The rate of complications with the leadless pacemaker is, overall, lower than with traditional pacemaker surgery. Reducing your risk of complications You can reduce the risk of certain complications by following your treatment plan and: Avoiding close or prolonged exposure to electrical devices or devices that have a strong magnetic field. Your doctor will give you specific instructions about these devices. Following activity, dietary and lifestyle restrictions and recommendations before surgery and during recovery Notifying your doctor immediately of any concerns, such as bleeding, fever, increase in pain, or wound redness, swelling or drainage Taking your medications exactly as directed Telling all members of your care team if you have any allergies