Alternatives to Benching (Pacemaker Recipient)

[FarmFresh]

Stats (Started LP 9/25/17 after three year layoff),

32yo, 195 lbs
Squat 320x5
DL 415x5
Press 135x5
Bench 200x5

Firstly, thank you, Mr. Rippetoe, for the fantastic program. I have had better results in 4 of months of LP than multiple years of bodybuilding splits.c

My question: I have a naturally muscular chest. My cardiologist told me if it continues to increase in size it will interfere with the placement of my pacemaker underneath the left pectoral. Additionally, the flesh around it now feels sensitive after limit bench sets.

Is there an exercise i can substitute in the alternation with the press that I can treat as a main lift in lieu of the bench press or should I just press 3 days a week?

[Mark Rippetoe]

How is the placement of the device affected by muscle growth, i.e. what bad thing happens next?

[FarmFresh]

It is located under the sternocostal portion of the pec - too much growth would force it either up towards the clavicle, or worse, down. There are wires attached to the thing of course. The fear is it would either rupture the pec/clavicle connective tissue or the wiring connections would be comprised by changing the length or tension of the wires. I definitely feel the position of it under the skin more as that area has grown.

Forgot to mention, I have only been doing close grip bench presses on bench days to minimize pec involvement but they have still grown.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Given the direction of the pec fibers in that area, I can't see a mechanism by which the thing could be moved either superior or inferior. But, given the general situation, I'd just press and quit benching.

[FarmFresh]

Thank you. Would it be appropriate to program like the squat on the novice LP, ie three days a week progressively loading until I need a light Wednesday?

[Mark Rippetoe]

Try it and see. Make sure your jumps are 2 pounds or less.

[FarmFresh]

Thank you! I'm !looking forward to becoming a good presser.