An external charging system (200) for charging or powering an implantable medical device is disclosed which is self-affixing to the patient without the need for a holding device. The charging system can comprise two modules (210, 215) attached to opposite ends of a flexible member (220). The flexible member is bendable and when bent will firmly hold its position on the patient. The two modules can comprise a coil module (215) containing a charging coil and an electronics module (210) including a user interface and the necessary electronics for activating the charging coil to produce a magnetic charging field. Wires can couple the charging coil in the coil module to the electronics in the electronics module. The entire assembly can be encased in a water proof sleeve (205) having a high-friction surface, which protects the charging system and helps the charging system to adhere to the patient.
