Hi! I had mine implanted in April 09. My doctor told me of both batterys none rechargable and rechargable. I was told the nonrechargable may last a couple years depending on how often and the intesity you use it. I was told the rechargable has a life of 7-10 years. I went with the rechargable because I wanted less surgery to replace it. I have had two additional surgerys to move my battery and repair it from a fall. I was told he would change it if I was to sensitive to charge it. But I chose to keep it and use a lidoderm patch under the charging unit. My site is very sore and they said it is a good possibility that I have RSD in the site because of major damage from a fall. It does make the skin a little warm during charging but not like hot. My rep and doctor was very helpful and gave me choices even on the lead I would use. They had a smaller one but I choose the larger longer one that would give me coverage from toes to under shoulder blades so if my back was hurting later they could just turn it on. I loved my initail visits and the first surgery experience. I felt everyone was real helpful. This last fall I had I had trouble reaching my rep to meet with my doctor but we finally worked it out. Good luck with yours.