Systems, devices, and methods for detaching an implantable device from a delivery system are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology, for example, is directed toward a system that includes an elongated shaft having a first coupling element with a first opening, an implantable device having a second coupling element with a second opening, and an elongated member configured to extend through the shaft. the system can have a retained state in which the elongated member is positioned through the first opening and the second opening, and a released state in which the elongated member is removed from the second opening and the first coupling element is configured to move proximally apart from the second coupling element with an axial displacement not greater than an outer diameter of the first coupling element at a location along the length of the first coupling element proximate the first opening.
