When can I read or use screens after a vitrectomy?

Published patient guidance from AAO and ASRS on vitrectomy recovery focuses on positioning, eye drops, protecting the eye, and avoiding altitude. Neither sets a restriction on reading or screen use, and using your eyes does not pull the retina loose.

The real barrier is vision. ASRS notes that some people have decreased vision for a few days after the procedure, and that people who received a gas bubble or silicone oil may need weeks or even months for vision to improve. AAO's retinal detachment guidance says vision often begins improving around 4 to 6 weeks and can take months to stabilize.

Positioning is the other barrier. AAO describes angled face-down mirrors specifically so patients can watch a screen while keeping their head down, which tells you screens are allowed, just awkward.

If reading gives you a dull ache or eye strain, that is common while one eye is not contributing. Take breaks. But if you get real pain, a sudden drop in vision, or a new shadow, stop and call your surgeon, because those are on the red flag list, not the eye strain list.