| Cover | Jan. 13, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 13, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 001-37463 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Glaukos Corporation |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001192448 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 33-0945406 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 229 Avenida Fabricante |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Clemente |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92672 |
| City Area Code | 949 |
| Local Phone Number | 367-9600 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | GKOS |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
