Care You Can See. People You Can Trust.
A Family-Owned Practice Built Around You
At Carolina Optometry, we believe eye care should feel personal, comfortable, and centered around your needs. As a family-owned practice founded by Dr. Andrew Graves and Dr. Melissa Graves, we’ve built our approach on trust, compassion, and a genuine commitment to our community.
Expert Eye Care, Right Where You Are
Conveniently located inside Costco in Apex and Raleigh (Wake Forest Rd), our practice combines accessibility with high-quality, comprehensive care. Whether you’re visiting for a routine eye exam or ongoing treatment, you’ll always receive attentive, one-on-one care designed with your vision and overall health in mind.
Our Commitment to Your Vision
We provide full-scope optometry services with the ability to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of eye conditions. From preventive care to advanced medical management, our goal is to help you maintain healthy vision for life.
Your Trusted Team of Eye Doctors
Dr. Andrew Graves
Originally from Oxford, Mississippi, Dr. Andrew Graves brings a strong foundation in science and patient care to every visit. He earned his degree in Biochemistry from the University of Mississippi and his Doctor of Optometry from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry in 2009.
A Journey of Experience and Expertise
During his training, he completed clinical rotations in North Carolina, Alabama, and at the UAB Eye Care Clinic. After graduation, he gained valuable experience working in a rural private practice in West Virginia before settling in North Carolina in 2010, where he has been licensed ever since.
Focused Expertise for Every Stage of Vision
Dr. Graves practices full-scope optometry with a special focus on:
Glaucoma
Macular Degeneration
Diabetic Retinopathy
Cataracts
Contact Lenses
Rooted in Family and Community
In 2015, he co-founded Carolina Optometry Associates with his wife, Dr. Melissa Graves. Today, he lives in Apex with his wife and their two sons, Peyton and Cooper. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his family and watching on Ole Miss football.
Dr. Melissa Graves
A native of New Jersey, Dr. Melissa Graves pursued her education in Alabama, earning degrees in Biology and Chemistry before completing her Doctor of Optometry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2009.
Advanced Training in Ocular Disease Care
She further advanced her expertise through a postgraduate residency in ocular disease at the Huntington VA Medical Center in West Virginia. There, she trained in advanced medical therapies for a wide range of conditions, including:
Glaucoma
Macular Degeneration
Diabetic Retinopathy
Cataracts
Contact Lenses
Where Passion Meets Patient-First Care
After her residency, she moved to North Carolina with her husband, where they both practiced optometry before fulfilling their dream of opening Carolina Optometry Associates in 2015. Dr. Melissa Graves is passionate about delivering thoughtful, individualized care. Outside of work, she enjoys running, cooking, watching football, and spending time with her two sons.
Dr. Gayatri Dhruva
Dr. Gayatri Dhruva brings extensive experience and a patient-focused approach to delivering high-quality eye care. Raised in Atlanta, Georgia, she has built a strong foundation in both primary care and ocular disease management.
A Foundation Built on Clinical Excellence
Undergraduate Degree: Biology, Georgia State University
Doctor of Optometry: Southern College of Optometry, Memphis, Tennessee
Residency (2006): W.G. Hefner VA Medical Center, Salisbury, NC
- Specialized in ocular disease and primary care.
Compassionate Care, Inside and Out
Dr. Dhruva is available at the Raleigh location on select days, where she is known for her attentive and compassionate care.
Outside the office, she enjoys:
Traveling
Cooking
Hiking
Spending time with her husband and three daughters.
More Than Eye Care-
A Place You Belong
Carolina Optometry Associates was founded in 2015 with a simple mission: to provide exceptional eye care in a setting that feels welcoming and personal. Today, we continue to serve the Raleigh and Apex communities with the same passion and dedication. We blend advanced medical care with a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere so every patient feels valued and genuinely supported.
Where Your Vision Feels at Home
Experience eye care that’s built on trust, expertise, and genuine connection. When you’re ready for personalized, attentive care, our team is here to help. Reach out and schedule your visit today.