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Re-epithelialization is the regrowth of surface cells after tissue gets scraped or removed. In eye care, it usually refers to the corneal epithelium healing after a scratch, erosion, or PRK. The surface closes first, then smooths out over time. Vision can fluctuate during this healing phase.
read more about re-epithelialization ...New epithelial cells slide in to cover the injured area. The layer then thickens and bonds more firmly to the tissue underneath. The surface can feel gritty or sore while the new layer settles. A bandage contact lens is sometimes used after PRK to protect the healing surface.
For small corneal scratches, surface closure can happen within a few days. After PRK, surface healing can take several days, with clearer vision improving over the next weeks. Light sensitivity and dryness can last longer. Follow-up visits confirm that the surface is closing as expected.
Use prescribed drops exactly as directed and keep hands away from the eye. Avoid rubbing, since rubbing can lift new cells and restart pain. Sunglasses can help with light sensitivity outdoors. Skip swimming and eye makeup until a clinician clears those activities.
Worsening pain after initial improvement needs a check. Increasing redness, thick discharge, or a sudden drop in vision can signal infection. New flashes, a shower of floaters, or a curtain-like shadow needs urgent care. A prompt visit can protect the eye during healing.
Pain is common early on, especially with corneal injuries and PRK. Discomfort should improve as the surface closes. Severe pain that gets worse needs medical care.
Regular contacts should not be worn on an injured cornea unless a clinician directs it. After PRK, a bandage contact lens may be placed for protection. Do not self-place a lens on a healing eye.
The epithelium itself usually heals without scarring. Scarring risk increases when deeper corneal layers get involved or infection occurs. Follow-up visits help confirm proper healing.
Dry eye, rubbing, and infection can slow healing. Smoking and poor sleep can also affect recovery. A clinician may adjust drops or add treatment if healing stalls.
Corneal Abrasion. Domingo E, Moshirfar M, Zeppieri M, Zabbo CP. StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532960/. Date Accessed February 17, 2026.
Persistent Epithelial Defect. Golhait P, Peseyie R. StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573060/. Date Accessed February 17, 2026.
PRK and LASEK for Farsightedness. Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff. https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=ut1273. Date Accessed February 17, 2026.
Progress in Corneal Wound Healing. Ljubimov AV, Saghizadeh M. PubMed Central. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4651844/. Date Accessed February 17, 2026.
iDESIGN RS Patient Information Booklet PRK Myopia. AMO Manufacturing USA, LLC. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf/P930016S057C.pdf. Date Accessed February 17, 2026.