Board-Certified Glaucoma Specialist in Kansas City

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss if not detected and managed appropriately. In many cases, glaucoma develops gradually and without early symptoms, which is why timely diagnosis and ongoing care are essential to protecting long-term vision.

At Optimum Eye Surgery, board-certified glaucoma specialist Dr. Neeti Alapati provides comprehensive glaucoma care for patients in Lenexa, KS and the greater Kansas City area. This page explains what glaucoma is, how it is diagnosed, and the range of treatment approaches that may be used over time depending on disease severity and progression.

Why See a Glaucoma Specialist in Kansas City?

• Board-certified ophthalmologist with fellowship training at Washington University in St. Louis.
• Castle Connolly Top Doctor in 2023 and 2026.
• Full range of care in one practice: testing and monitoring, prescription drops, laser treatment and glaucoma surgery.
• A Kansas City native with more than 10 years of experience, who also teaches and cares for veterans at the Kansas City VA.
• Most insurance and Medicare accepted.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma most commonly occurs when increased pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve. The optic nerve is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain, and damage to this structure can result in irreversible vision loss.

There are several types of glaucoma, with primary open-angle glaucoma being the most common. Other forms may develop more suddenly or be related to anatomical or medical factors. Regardless of type, glaucoma is typically a chronic condition that requires long-term monitoring and management rather than a one-time intervention.

Common Symptoms and Risk Factors

Early-stage glaucoma often causes no noticeable symptoms. Vision changes may not become apparent until significant optic nerve damage has already occurred.

Risk factors for glaucoma can include increasing age, family history, elevated eye pressure, certain medical conditions, and previous eye injury or surgery. Because symptoms may be absent in the early stages, regular eye examinations play an important role in early detection.

How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing glaucoma involves a combination of clinical assessments rather than a single test. Evaluation typically includes measuring eye pressure, examining the optic nerve, assessing peripheral vision, and monitoring changes over time.

Glaucoma diagnosis and management focus on identifying early optic nerve damage and determining an appropriate care plan based on individual risk, disease severity, and progression.

Overview of Glaucoma Treatment Options

Glaucoma care is individualized. Treatment is aimed at lowering eye pressure and reducing the risk of further optic nerve damage. The most appropriate approach depends on the type of glaucoma, how advanced it is, and how it responds to treatment over time.

Medical Treatment

Medical treatment often involves prescription eye drops or other medications designed to reduce eye pressure. These treatments are commonly used in early or moderate stages of glaucoma and require regular use and monitoring.

→ Learn more about medical treatment for glaucoma

Laser Treatment Options

Laser procedures may be recommended to improve fluid drainage or reduce eye pressure. Laser treatment can be used alone or in combination with medications, depending on individual circumstances.

→ Learn more about laser treatment options

Surgical Management

When glaucoma cannot be adequately controlled with medication or laser therapy, surgical options may be considered. Surgical management is typically reserved for more advanced or progressive cases.

→ Learn more about surgical management

Specialist Evaluation

In some situations, a specialist evaluation is recommended to assess disease complexity, progression risk, and the most appropriate treatment pathway.

→ Learn more about glaucoma evaluation and testing

Glaucoma Specialist Serving Lenexa, Overland Park, Olathe and the Kansas City Metro

Our main office is at 11071 Hauser Street, Unit 4b in Lenexa, KS, convenient for patients from Overland Park, Olathe, Shawnee, Leawood, Merriam and the rest of Johnson County. For patients north of the river, Dr. Alapati also sees patients at Somers Eye Center, 2790 Clay Edwards Drive in North Kansas City, MO, on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month.

Our approach focuses on careful assessment, evidence-based treatment planning and long-term monitoring to help preserve vision and quality of life. Many glaucoma patients also develop cataracts. Learn more about cataract surgery in Kansas City with Dr. Alapati.

Why Ongoing Glaucoma Care Matters

Glaucoma is a long-term condition, and effective management often requires adjustments over time. Eye pressure targets, treatment response and disease progression can change, making regular follow-up essential.

Early detection and consistent care offer the best opportunity to reduce the risk of vision loss and maintain visual function.

Glaucoma FAQs

Does Medicare cover glaucoma testing?

Yes, for people at high risk. Medicare Part B covers a glaucoma test once every 12 months if you have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, are African American and age 50 or older, or are Hispanic and age 65 or older. After you meet the Part B deductible, you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. We will review your specific coverage at your visit.

Does Medicare cover glaucoma treatment?

Medically necessary glaucoma care, including office visits, laser treatment and surgery, is generally covered under Medicare Part B, subject to the deductible and coinsurance. Prescription eye drops are usually covered through a Medicare Part D drug plan.

What is the difference between a glaucoma specialist and a regular eye doctor?

A glaucoma specialist is an ophthalmologist, a medical doctor, who has completed additional fellowship training focused on glaucoma. That means diagnosing complex cases, managing medications, and performing glaucoma laser treatment and surgery when needed.

How often will I need to be seen?

It depends on the type and severity of your glaucoma and how well your eye pressure is controlled. Most patients are seen regularly for pressure checks and periodic testing of the optic nerve and peripheral vision. Dr. Alapati will set a schedule that fits your situation.

Where do you see patients?

At our main office in Lenexa, KS, Monday through Friday, and at Somers Eye Center in North Kansas City, MO, on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month.

Schedule a Glaucoma Evaluation

Call (913) 800-2673 or request an appointment online to see a board-certified glaucoma specialist in Kansas City.