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Dr. Rajen Desai, MD

Dr. Rajen Desai, MD

Cataract Surgery*
15+ years of experience

Dr. Rajen Desai, MD is a cataract surgery specialist in Freehold, NJ and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Stanford University Medical Center in 2008. He is affiliated with medical facilities Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset and JFK University Medical Center. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

4.9 Star Rating
Based on 61 reviews 4.9 Star Rating (61 reviews)

Practice

509 Stillwells Corner Rd # E5 Freehold, NJ 07728
Telehealth available

At a Glance

  • Area of Expertise
    Dr. Desai specializes in the area of Ophthalmology. See board certifications
  • Explains Conditions Well
    Patients said this doctor explains conditions well. See reviews
  • Offers Telehealth
    This doctor offers telehealth appointments. Call the office to schedule an appointment.
  • Practices at Top Hospital
    America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ See hospitals
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Dr. Desai's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Desai

4.9
61 ratings, 58 with a written review
5 star
97%
97%
4 star
0%
0%
3 star
2%
2%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
2%
2%

Your trust is our top concern.

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He is the most compassionate, caring doctor.
He listens to my concern and with his busy schedule he never rushes you and answers our concerns. He makes good recommendations. You can always text him with concerns and will reply promptly. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family. He did both myself and husband cataract and recently did my in law. She cannot praise him enough and was so delighted she went to him. Her husband was reluctant to have his cataract done but after his wife had it done and cannot say enough about Dr. Desai he is now ready to have his done. He is an AMAZING DOCTOR.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Sheila McCormack – Mar 01, 2024
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Cataract Surgery
Dr Desai is a God sent doctor. I had a lot of anxiety. He helped me understand and get comfortable about the surgery. His coordinator and surgery are excellent.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mahendra Verma – Sep 25, 2023
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My Cataract Surgery with Dr. Rajen Desai
As initially referred by my primary care physician, I had done my cataract surgery on first eye by Dr. Rajen Desai a month ago, followed by second one two weeks back. He did a great job explaining all options including laser procedures as intended by me. He explained important details very thoroughly towards the visual outcome and answered my various questions. I felt very comfortable and decided to go with him confidently. My surgery went so smooth and excellent that I hardly felt any discomfort or pain later. He also took great initiatives to recheck progress on my eyes during post-surgery follow up, procedures resulting vision outcome 20/20 with implanted Toric lenses by him. He is a very compassionate, highly experienced, excellent caring doctor and would recommend Dr. Rajen Desai for a specialized eye surgery if needed by any person.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Apares Biswas – Jun 07, 2023
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Best Glaucoma Surgeon
My husband, who is under 40, started to experience blurry vision in the left eye all of a sudden. He went to multiple doctors to figure out the cause. After several eye check ups, MRI scans and other tests, it was determined that he had glaucoma and he needed immediate attention. We were referred to Dr. Rajen Desai and going to him was one of the best decisions we ever took! Dr. Desai is not only a knowledgeable opthalmologist but also a very caring and compassionate person. He performed glaucoma surgery to the left eye and laser surgery to the right eye. He was with us throughout the process and explained every step carefully. He took time to answer all our questions. His constant attention and communication has been a great reassurance for us at every stage and our experience with him has been nothing short of excellent. Overall Dr. Desai handled our case very well. He is outstanding and I highly recommend him for advanced eye care!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
8 others found this helpful
Helpful
Sushmitha Bhagi – Jul 17, 2022
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I recently underwent cataract cataract surgery surgery as well as a stent placementfor glaucoma. As a board certified internist cardiologist and registered pharmacist I'm in a good position to evaluate physicians.DrDesai was excellent. All was well explained and Dr Desai communicated via text. I was quite happy with the whole experience I would highly recommend Doctor Desai, and in particular very happy with the results . I have referred my own patients to him
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
15 others found this helpful
Helpful
LarryJCohenMDFACCFACPRph – Dec 06, 2021
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I recently had cataract surgery with Dr. Desai at the Specialized Surgical Center in East Brunswick. The staff, nurses and technicians were both professional and helpful. The facility was modern, sterile, and had Covid precautions down to a science. After surgery, my vision is amazing! Colors are vibrant and beautiful! The post operative instructions are clear and after reviewing them a couple of times, I was able to follow them easily and place the eye drops without any difficulty. The follow up visit with an eye doctor was convenient and reassuring. My new lenses are perfect! Follow up contact from the doctor and Surgicenter was helpful. Seriously, I cannot believe how the cataract affected my vision. Colors in my world were dull and muted. Now, the sky is so blue, the grass is beautiful green, and the squirrels in my backyard are gray, not a dull brown! Thank you Dr. Desai for performing my cataract surgery and improving my vision and my experience in the world!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
13 others found this helpful
Helpful
Joanne – Nov 27, 2021
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Dr. Rajen Desai is a top-notch ophthalmologist, trained at Northwestern University, with special interest in glaucoma & cataract surgery. He has done research and is very knowledgeable about state-of-the-art techniques and products, including novel lenses & stents. He took his time to explain the surgery and recovery expectations to my dad, who came to NJ for repair of his cataract and narrow-angle glaucoma. He is very happy with the outcome. I will certainly recommend Dr. Desai to anyone needing this type of expertise!!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
13 others found this helpful
Helpful
Sep 04, 2021
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I was operated by Dr. Desai two months ago. I received excellent preoperative and postoperative treatment. I regained my vision and became an avid reader again after the surgery. What a gift this young Doctor gave me at the age of 84. Right from first appointment until full recovery, Dr. Desai answered all my concerns. I am admirer of this tenanted Doctor. May God bless him with long healthy life to serve the humanity….. Shakuntala Lakhani
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
9 others found this helpful
Helpful
Shakuntala Lakhani – Aug 29, 2021
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Dr. Desai has been my physician for 16 months. I had severe pressure in my eyes due to glaucoma along with cataracts in both eyes. Dr. Desai has successfully lowered my pressure from 44 to 16 by using laser and inserting a stent in each eye and removing both cataracts. His attention to details and his kind, gentle technique and professionalism rate him as one of the best physicians in his field. Also, his office visits are never rushed—-always making you feel more like family than a patient !
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
7 others found this helpful
Helpful
Angelo Bonarrigo – Aug 28, 2021
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Dr. Desai is very knowlegable, thorough, professional and caring. He spends great mount of time during each visit to explain everything & collaborates with other docs from leading opthalmology hospital to provide best care for our child with glaucoma. Dr.Desai and his staff has always got back promptly whenever we have reached out for any request like additional tests, rescheduling, etc. Our overall experience at the Witlin Center for Advanced Eyecare has been a very positive one. The need for consistent and effective medical care is very critical for a child with glaucoma and we feel we are in great hands of Dr.Desai ! We highly recommend him.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Aug 28, 2021
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Dr. Rajen Desai is an excellent Eye Surgeon, very talented and through knowledgeable. He did my both eyes Cataract surgery nicely and I have 20/20 vision in both eyes. No Reading glass afterwards. He is the best, very cooperative in follow-up treatment also. I strongly recommend him for critical eye treatments. My ratings are 5 out of 5.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
What could be improved
No results
6 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mukesh Patel – Aug 02, 2021
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Many thanks to Dr. Desai for making my experience at the Witlin Center for Advanced Eyecare a positive one. When you begin to notice a loss of vision, the need for consistent and effective medical care is critical. Dr. Desai’s patience and support prior to back-to-back cataract surgery, taking the time to answer my questions, providing honest expectations in a positive manner and reassuring me of his continued support- was so very much appreciated. With much gratitude for my perfect vision, Kathy Ahmed
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
6 others found this helpful
Helpful
Kathleen Ahmed – Apr 28, 2021
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Failed Glaucoma surgery. I suffered eye loss and damage due to poor surgical technique.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
10 others found this helpful
Helpful
Apr 08, 2021
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My comments on Dr. Desai come from 2 perspectives --- as an optometrist and eye care practitioner knowledgeable from a medical perspective of the care Dr. Desai provides, as well as the sister of his patient who has an aggressive form of glaucoma, in need of surgery. Dr. Desai is at the forefront of providing the most recent evidence-based care and is a skilled surgeon/clinician. But in addition, he is a compassionate practitioner who truly cares about his patients and understands the apprehension of a patient dealing with the complexities of preserving their vision. Thank you, Dr. Desai, for all your good works.
What went well
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
9 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mar 13, 2021
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Dr. Desai initially treated my pseudo-exfoliation glaucoma with Xen Gel Stent surgery but because of its aggressive & unpredictable nature, he later inserted an Ahmed Valve. So far I have been able to come off of my eye drops & the pressure is in the single digits. He is extremely knowledgeable, generous & patient in his explanations and time, and goes above & beyond in providing hope & care. A true gem - I am blessed to have him as my doctor!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
10 others found this helpful
Helpful
Teresa Adamczyk – Mar 13, 2021
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Very professional, caring, and very clear in his treatment plan from Surgeries to follow-up care. Would highly recommend Dr. Desai to anyone with major eye concerns, emphasis on Glaucoma diagnosis.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
9 others found this helpful
Helpful
Feb 03, 2021
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WOULD RECOMMEND HIM TO ANYONE WHO HAS TO HAVE SURGERY, DID SUCH A GREAT JOB, I RECOMMEND HIM TO ALL MY FRIENDS, MAKES YOU FEEL SO COMFORTABLE, AND RELAXED
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
6 others found this helpful
Helpful
WILLIAM J KATONA – Sep 05, 2020
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Most pleasant and comfortable experience. I will recommend to anyone.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Pradyumna Patel – Aug 13, 2020
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Dr. Desai operated on my cataracts last year. I have had no problems or issues since then. I went back for my yearly checkup and he was personable and as sincere as he was when he operated on me.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Norma Shapiro – Aug 01, 2020
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I was quite calm on the day of surgery, because of my confidence in Dr. Desai, and his full explanation of the surgical procedure for glaucoma. It was interesting that although I was awake throughout, I was totally comfortable.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Jul 18, 2020
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About Me

care philosophy

My goal is to provide compassionate, state-of-the-art ophthalmic care which starts with listening to my patient, patient education, and treating each patient as I would my own family. I have operated on my own family members for their cataract and glaucoma surgery.

biography

Rajen Desai MD FACS is a board certified cataract and glaucoma surgeon with the Witlin Center for Advanced Eye Care and Santamaria Eye Center.

Dr. Desai graduated Phi Beta Kappa with honors from Stanford University, followed by a...
read more
  • Cataract Surgery

  • Ophthalmology

  • Anterior Segment Ophthalmology

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Northwestern Memorial Hospital/ Nw University Il

    Fellowship Hospital, 2014
  • Northwestern U-northwestern Memorial Hospital

    Residency Hospital, 2013
  • Northwestern U-northwestern Memorial Hospital|northwestern University Feinberg - School Of Medicine

    Residency Hospital, 2013
  • Northwestern University Feinberg School Of Medicine

    Residency Hospital, 2013
  • Maimonides Medical Center

    Internship Hospital, 2009
  • Stanford University Medical Center

    Medical School, 2008
  • Stanford University School Of Medicine

    Medical School, 2008
  • Stanford University

    Undergraduate School, 2002
  • Stanford University School Of Humanities & Sciences

    Undergraduate School, 2002
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Ophthalmology®
Ophthalmology
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.
  • English

  • Gujarati

  • Spanish

Locations

Practice

Mobile Vision LLC509 Stillwells Corner Rd # E5 Freehold, NJ 07728
1
  • Call
  • Fax
  • Hours
    • Mon: closed
    • Tue: closed
    • Wed: closed
    • Thu: 8:30am - 3:00pm
    • Fri: closed
    • Sat: closed
    • Sun: closed
  • Directions

Practice

Santamaria Eye Center P A104 Market St Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
2
  • Call
  • Fax
  • Hours
    • Mon: closed
    • Tue: closed
    • Wed: closed
    • Thu: closed
    • Fri: 9:00am - 2:00pm
    • Sat: closed
    • Sun: closed
  • Directions

Practice

New GW LLC385 State Route 18 Ste H East Brunswick, NJ 08816
3
  • Call
  • Fax
  • Hours
    • Mon: 8:30am - 3:00pm
    • Tue: 8:30am - 3:00pm
    • Wed: 8:30am - 3:00pm
    • Thu: 8:30am - 3:00pm
    • Fri: closed
    • Sat: closed
    • Sun: closed
  • Directions

Practice

Office740 64th St Brooklyn, NY 11220
4
  • Call
  • Fax
  • Hours
    • Tue: 8:00am - 4:30pm
    • Thu: 9:00am - 5:30pm
    • Fri: 8:00am - 4:30pm
  • Directions

Affiliated Hospitals

  • Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset

    110 Rehill Ave
    Somerville, NJ 08876
    Recipient of 32
    hospital awards

    America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2025, 2024)

    Superior clinical outcomes in surgical care across 15 of the most common in-hospital surgical procedures including cardiac, vascular, joint replacement, prostate, spine, and gastrointestinal surgeries

    Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2025)

    Superior clinical outcomes in surgical care across 15 of the most common in-hospital surgical procedures including cardiac, vascular, joint replacement, prostate, spine, and gastrointestinal surgeries

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    83%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    1% lower than the national average

    76%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

    1% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • JFK University Medical Center

    65 James St
    Edison, NJ 08820
    Recipient of 16
    hospital awards

    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2025)

    Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    78%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    6% lower than the national average

    70%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    6% lower than the national average

    View all patient feedback
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