Mid-America Eye Center

Mid-America Eye Center is a trusted name in vision care, serving the Kansas City community for nearly half a century. Our commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate eye care has allowed us to build strong relationships with our patients and their families. We understand that your vision is precious, and we strive to offer the highest quality care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Our Team of Dedicated Eye Care Professionals

Our success is built upon the expertise and dedication of our talented team of eye care professionals. Led by experienced ophthalmologists, Dr. Joseph Parelman and Dr. Steven Unterman, our team includes a skilled optometrist, Dr. Annette Manion, as well as a supportive and knowledgeable staff.

Dr. Joseph J. Parelman

A graduate of Duke University School of Medicine, Dr. Parelman brings extensive experience and specialized knowledge to our practice. He completed his internship in internal medicine at St. John's Mercy Hospital in St. Louis and his residency training in Ophthalmology at the Washington University Medical Center in St. Louis. Dr. Parelman's fellowship at the Louisiana State University Eye Center focused on corneal transplantation, diseases of the outer eye, and refractive surgery. He played a valuable role in the early research and development of the laser technology now utilized in LASIK procedures. Dr. Parelman remains dedicated to medical education as a member of the volunteer teaching faculty of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Kansas Medical School. Outside of medicine, he enjoys woodworking, skiing, biking, and spending time with his wife and their three children.

Dr. Steven R. Unterman

Dr. Unterman, a graduate of the University of Chicago and the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, is a highly skilled ophthalmologist specializing in diseases and surgery of the cornea as well as refractive surgery. His residency and advanced eye surgery training were completed at the University of Kansas Medical Center, followed by a fellowship at the Louisiana State University Eye Center, where he honed his expertise in cornea-related conditions. Prior to joining Mid-America Eye Center, Dr. Unterman served as a full-time faculty member and Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Kansas Medical School. He also held the positions of Medical Director of the Kansas Eye Bank and the Cornea Service, showcasing his commitment to advancing eye care. Dr. Unterman's dedication to teaching extended to his role as an Assistant Clinical Professor at KU Medical Center and his consultancy at the Kansas City Veterans Administration Center. He is married to Ellen, and they have two daughters. Dr. Unterman finds joy in restoring vintage sports cars.

Dr. Annette S. Manion

Dr. Manion, a graduate of Indiana University School of Optometry, brings her expertise in primary eye care, contact lenses, and pediatrics to our team. She completed her rotations at esteemed institutions such as the John Kenyon Eye Institute in Louisville, Kentucky, and Doctors Eyecare in New Albany, Indiana, gaining valuable experience and broadening her knowledge base. Dr. Manion's commitment to staying at the forefront of the ever-evolving field of optometry is evident through her memberships in professional organizations, including the Contact Lens and Cornea Section of the American Optometric Association, the Kansas Optometric Association, and the Heart of America Contact Lens Society.

Comprehensive Eye Care Services

At Mid-America Eye Center, we offer a full range of eye care services to meet your individual needs. Our highly equipped facility allows us to provide comprehensive diagnostic testing, including visual acuity assessments, computerized refractions, and computerized visual field evaluations.

We are experts in treating a wide array of eye conditions, from common refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism to more complex issues such as cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye disease, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Our commitment to providing the latest advancements in eye care means we offer cutting-edge surgical options, including LASIK, PRK, and corneal transplants. We also specialize in cosmetic procedures to enhance the appearance of the eyes.

For those seeking routine eye care, we offer comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and vision therapy. We work closely with our patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique concerns and visual requirements.