Introduction
Entropion is a common eye condition, especially among older adults, that causes the eyelid to turn inward, leading to discomfort, irritation, and potential damage to the cornea. In New York City, finding a high - cost - effective public doctor for entropion correction can be a crucial decision for patients. This article aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the top 5 such doctors on the doctor ranking list, along with an in - depth understanding of entropion, its diagnosis, treatment, and associated costs.
Understanding Entropion
What is Entropion?
Entropion is a condition where the eyelid, usually the lower one, turns inward. As a result, the eyelashes rub against the eye, causing irritation, redness, and potential damage to the cornea. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can be a congenital disorder or occur due to factors such as aging, trauma, or scarring.
Causes of Entropion
There are several causes of entropion, which can be classified as follows:
| Cause |
Description |
| Aging |
Weakening of the muscles and stretching of the tendons under the eye, which is common in older adults, can lead to entropion. |
| Congenital |
Some individuals are born with entropion, but it may resolve on its own in the first year of life. |
| Trauma |
This includes eye infections, previous eye surgeries, burns, and scarring. These can cause the eyelid to turn inward. |
| Spastic Entropion |
It is caused by eyelid muscle spasms related to inflammation of the eye and can be treated with eye drops and methods for relieving inflammation. |
Symptoms of Entropion
The symptoms of entropion can be quite uncomfortable and may include:
- Red, irritated eyes
- A feeling like something is in the eye
- Sensitivity to wind and light
- Eye pain
- Watery eyes
- Crusting on the eyelid and mucus discharge
- Decreasing vision
If left untreated, entropion can lead to more serious complications such as corneal ulcers, eye infections, and vision loss.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Entropion
Diagnosis
Entropion can usually be diagnosed through a routine eye exam and physical. During the exam, the doctor may pull on the eyelids, ask the patient to blink or close the eyes forcefully to assess the eyelid's position, muscle tone, and tightness. If scar tissue or other conditions are suspected to be the cause, the doctor will also examine the surrounding tissue.
Treatment
The treatment of entropion depends on its cause and severity.
- **Non - surgical Treatments**
- **Soft Contact Lens**: A type of soft contact lens can be used as a corneal bandage to ease symptoms. It can be used with or without a refractive prescription.
- **Botox**: Small amounts of onabotulinumtoxina (Botox) injected into the lower eyelid can turn the eyelid out. The effects can last up to six months, and a series of injections may be required.
- **Stitches**: The doctor can place several stitches in specific locations along the affected eyelid under local anesthesia. The stitches turn the eyelid outward, and the resulting scar tissue keeps it in position. However, this is not a long - term solution as the eyelid may turn back inward after several months.
- **Skin Tape**: Special transparent skin tape can be applied to the eyelid to prevent it from turning in.
- **Surgical Treatments**
- **Everting Sutures**: This is a relatively fast procedure that uses stitches inside the eyelid to stiffen it and prevent it from turning in. The stitches are usually dissolvable. However, entropion may return over time.
- **Quickert Procedure**: It is a more in - depth procedure often used after the recurrence of entropion following everting sutures. It involves cutting the ends of the eyelid, removing a small piece, and reattaching the cut ends. Dissolvable everting stitches are also used. The entropion usually does not return, but it requires more recovery time.
- **Jones Procedure**: Typically reserved for patients who have had a recurrence of entropion after previous surgery. Deep stitches are placed into the lower lid retractor to tighten it after cutting the lid skin for access. The deep stitches may be permanent or dissolvable.
- **Lateral Tarsal Strip**: The eyelid is tightened by using deep stitches to attach the outside corner of the lid to the tissue over the bone of the eye socket. This tightens the eyelid horizontally. However, the deep stitch can come loose, resulting in a return of entropion.
Cost of Entropion Treatment
The cost of entropion surgery can vary widely. It depends on the type of surgery, the location of the procedure, the complexity of the case, and the degree of entropion. The cost of the actual surgery can range from around $500 to $2,000. In addition, there may be additional costs such as anesthesia fees, costs for necessary medications, pre - surgery tests and examination fees, after - care appointments, and hospital fees.
Insurance often covers at least a portion of entropion surgery since it is usually considered a medically necessary procedure. However, coverage policies vary from one insurance provider to another, so patients should contact their insurance company to find out their out - of - pocket costs.
The Top 5 High - Cost - Effective Public Doctors for Entropion Correction in New York City
Finding the right doctor for entropion correction is crucial. Here is a summary of the top 5 high - cost - effective public doctors in New York City, although the specific doctor names are not readily available from the given references, we can outline the qualities and resources to consider when looking for such doctors:
NYU Langone Health
- **Qualities**: NYU Langone's team of doctors is dedicated to providing the most advanced and personalized care. They have a comprehensive approach to treating entropion, which likely includes both non - surgical and surgical options.
- **Cost - effectiveness**: As a public - affiliated medical institution, it may offer more affordable rates compared to some private clinics. The availability of multiple treatment options also allows patients to choose the most cost - effective one based on their condition.
- **How to Access**: Patients can call 646 - 929 - 7800 or browse the list of specialists on their website (https://nyulangone.org/doctors/condition/entropion) and schedule an appointment online.
Doctors Referenced Through Zocdoc
- **Qualities**: Zocdoc is a platform that helps patients find verified providers for entropion. Doctors listed on Zocdoc can be filtered based on various criteria such as insurance acceptance, gender, availability after hours, and patient ratings. This allows patients to find a doctor who meets their specific needs and preferences.
- **Cost - effectiveness**: By being able to search for doctors who accept their insurance, patients can potentially reduce their out - of - pocket costs. Additionally, the ability to compare different doctors and their ratings can help patients find a high - quality yet cost - effective option.
- **How to Access**: Patients can visit the Zocdoc website (https://www.zocdoc.com/procedure/entropion - 4753) and use the search filters to find a suitable doctor. They can then book an appointment online, and many doctors offer same - day or real - time availability.
Doctors Referred by Primary Care Physicians
- **Qualities**: Primary care physicians in New York City may refer patients to specialized ophthalmologists or oculoplastic surgeons for entropion correction. These referrals are often based on the doctor's experience, reputation, and the patient's specific condition. Referral doctors are likely to provide high - quality care and have a good understanding of the patient's overall health.
- **Cost - effectiveness**: Since primary care physicians are part of the public healthcare system, they can help patients find doctors within the network that are covered by their insurance, thus reducing costs.
- **How to Access**: Patients should visit their primary care doctor if they suspect they have entropion. The primary care doctor will then refer them to an appropriate specialist.
Doctors at Public Hospitals
- **Qualities**: Public hospitals in New York City have experienced medical staff who are well - trained in treating entropion. They have access to the latest medical technology and resources, and can provide comprehensive care, including pre - and post - operative management.
- **Cost - effectiveness**: Public hospitals often have more standardized pricing and may offer financial assistance programs for eligible patients. This makes them a cost - effective option for entropion correction.
- **How to Access**: Patients can contact the public hospital directly, make an appointment at the outpatient department, or follow the referral process if they are sent by their primary care doctor.
Doctors Recommended by Patient Communities
- **Qualities**: Patient communities in New York City can be a valuable source of information. Doctors recommended by other patients are likely to have a good bedside manner, provide effective treatment, and be relatively cost - effective. Word - of - mouth recommendations can give patients an insight into the doctor's actual performance.
- **Cost - effectiveness**: By learning from the experiences of other patients, patients can avoid doctors who may charge excessive fees without providing commensurate care. They can also find doctors who are known for being efficient and economical.
- **How to Access**: Patients can join online patient forums, support groups, or ask around in local community centers to find out about recommended doctors for entropion correction.
Conclusion
Entropion is a common eye condition that can cause significant discomfort and potential vision problems if left untreated. In New York City, there are several high - cost - effective public doctors available for entropion correction. Patients have multiple options, including those at NYU Langone Health, doctors found through Zocdoc, referrals from primary care physicians, public hospitals, and those recommended by patient communities.
It is important for patients to do their research, understand the different treatment options and associated costs, and choose a doctor who best suits their needs. Before starting any treatment, patients should also consult with their insurance provider to clarify coverage details.
If you or someone you know is suffering from entropion, take the first step towards treatment. Contact a recommended doctor, learn more about the available options, and start on the path to better eye health. Share this article with others who may benefit from this information, and explore related topics such as eye health and surgical recovery tips.
