PRK Days 4-7: Bandage Lens Out, Vision Still Rough

This is when the bandage contact lens usually comes out. StatPearls says it typically stays in about 3 to 5 days until epithelial healing is complete. A randomized trial in the Journal of Current Ophthalmology compared removal on day 4 against day 7 in 260 eyes and found the day 7 group had better vision at one month and fewer complications overall, 6.1 percent versus 14.6 percent, so do not be surprised if your surgeon leaves it in longer than a friend's.

Taking the lens out often brings back a gritty or scratchy feeling for a day or two, because the eye has been covered and the new surface is still fragile and slightly uneven. EyeWiki describes the healing cells meeting in the center around days 4 to 5 and forming a ridge that takes weeks to smooth out.

Vision at lens removal is commonly around 20/30 to 20/50 according to EyeWiki. That is good enough to function for many people and disappointing compared to what LASIK patients report at the same point. Driving is a surgeon decision, not a calendar decision. The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests taking a few days off work and avoiding strenuous activity for up to a week.