Although commonly referred to as a "battery change," heart devices are laser-sealed so there is no way to replace just a battery. Surgeons will replace the whole device with a new one during changeout.

Since they are so small, leadless pacemakers are generally not removed when the battery runs low. Instead, when a new pacemaker is needed, the current device may be simply turned off before the new pacemaker is implanted. A doctor will determine what is best for individual needs.