Cataract Surgery Princeton, Monroe Township, & Somerset, NJ

Name: Cataract Surgery
Brand: Princeton Eye Group
Rating: 3.91 (295 reviews)

Clearer Vision Is Within Reach

Cataract surgery is one of the most performed and most successful surgical procedures in the world. At Princeton Eye Group, it is performed with the precision, technology, and subspecialty depth of a world-class ophthalmology practice.

A cataract develops gradually, and for many patients the change is so subtle at first that it goes unnoticed. Colors seem duller. Night driving becomes harder. Reading requires more light than it used to. Over time, the clouding of the natural lens progresses until vision is meaningfully impaired and daily life is affected. The good news is that cataract surgery is not only highly effective, but is also one of the safest procedures in all of medicine, with a success rate exceeding 98%.

At Princeton Eye Group, our cataract surgeons in NJ bring elite training, decades of surgical experience, and access to the most advanced lens technologies available to every procedure, giving patients throughout New Jersey the opportunity to see more clearly than they have in years.

What Is Cataract Surgery?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens, which sits behind the iris and is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. Most cataracts develop as a natural consequence of aging, as proteins in the lens break down and accumulate over time, causing progressive loss of clarity. Cataract surgery removes the clouded natural lens and replaces it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL), restoring the eye's focusing ability and improving visual acuity. The procedure is performed through a small, self-sealing incision using ultrasound energy to break up and remove the cataract, requiring no stitches in most cases. Most patients notice significant improvement in vision within the first several days and are able to resume normal daily activities shortly after surgery.

What Makes Princeton Eye Group's Approach Different

Cataract surgery in NJ at Princeton Eye Group goes beyond simply removing a clouded lens.

Our surgeons take a comprehensive approach to the procedure, using advanced pre-operative measurements and calculations to select the intraocular lens best suited to each patient's anatomy, lifestyle, and visual goals.

For patients interested in reducing or eliminating their dependence on glasses, premium lens options—including multifocal, extended depth of focus, light-adjustable, and toric lenses—offer the opportunity to address not just the cataract but the full refractive profile of the eye. The result, for many patients, is not just restored vision but better vision than they have had in decades.

Our Cataract Surgery Services

What to Expect

A detailed guide to the cataract surgery journey, from your initial consultation and pre-operative measurements through procedure day and recovery, so you know exactly what to anticipate at every step.

Surgical Technique & Safety

Learn how cataract surgery is performed, how we help keep you comfortable, and what to know about safety and your expected results.

Intraocular Lens Options

For patients seeking greater independence from glasses, Princeton Eye Group offers the full range of advanced technology lens options, including multifocal, extended depth of focus, light-adjustable, and toric lens implants.

Cataract Self-Test

Are your symptoms related to a cataract? Our cataract self-test can help you assess your vision and determine whether it may be time to schedule a comprehensive evaluation.

Testimonials Patient Perspectives

“I feel like I can fully see and enjoy life again.”
— Eli, Princeton Eye Patient

Why Choose Princeton Eye Group for Cataract Surgery?

Princeton Eye Group has been performing refractive cataract surgery at the highest level for decades, with a surgical team whose training, experience, and access to advanced technology reflect the very best that modern ophthalmology has to offer.

Surgeons Trained at the World's Leading Eye Institutions

Princeton Eye Group's cataract surgeons are trained at Wills Eye Hospital, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, and other top-ranked institutions. This depth of training translates directly into safer, more precise surgical outcomes and access to the most advanced techniques available.

A Culture of Innovation in Cataract Surgery

Princeton Eye Group's cataract surgeons are recognized nationally as innovators and key opinion leaders in the field, among the first in the region to implant the latest intraocular lens technologies, active contributors to the research and clinical conversations that shape cataract surgical standards, and trusted voices at national and international meetings. Innovation in cataract care is not a credential here. It is a practice-wide culture.

Personalized Lens Selection

Princeton Eye Group offers the complete spectrum of advanced technology intraocular lenses, including multifocal, extended depth of focus, light-adjustable, and toric lenses. Our top-rated cataract surgeons take the time to match each patient with the lens best suited to their anatomy, lifestyle, and visual goals.

Performed at a Center of Excellence

Cataract treatment at Princeton Eye Group is performed at the Surgery Center of Central New Jersey, partnered with Wills Eye Hospital, which maintains complication rates among the lowest in the country. Princeton Eye Group has been designated a Center of Excellence by Wills Eye Hospital, one of the nation's consistently top-ranked eye hospitals.

Subspecialty Depth for Complex Cases

Because Princeton Eye Group covers nearly every ophthalmic subspecialty, patients with complex presentations—including coexisting glaucoma, corneal disease, or retinal conditions—benefit from seamless, coordinated surgical planning that standalone cataract centers cannot provide.

Testimonials Patient Perspectives

View All Testimonials

"I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Solarte and the incredible care I received during my cataract surgery. From the first consultation, Dr. Solarte was thorough, patien...
"I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Solarte and the incredible care I received during my cataract surgery. From the first consultation, Dr. Solarte was thorough, patient, and reassuring. I'm very happy with the result. Brenn"

—Brenn Hawkins

"Dr. Richard Reynolds changed my life with cataract surgery. From the first consultation through surgery and follow-up care, he was professional, compassionate, patient, and extrem...
"Dr. Richard Reynolds changed my life with cataract surgery. From the first consultation through surgery and follow-up care, he was professional, compassionate, patient, and extremely skilled. I wore glasses for 45 years, so deciding to pay for the premium lenses for each eye was a big decision for me. It turned out to be the best money I ever spent. The improvement in my vision has been truly life-changing. I can see clearly again, and everyday activities that had become difficult are now easy and enjoyable. The staff at Princeton Eye Group was also caring, organized, and supportive throughout the entire process. I’m deeply grateful to Dr. Reynolds and highly recommend him to anyone considering cataract surgery. Jeannie Burke"

—Jean Lebosky

"Dr Epstein was wonderful. Explained everything about my eyes and the cataract surgery. Everyone working there was pleasant and helpful. I am extremely happy with the outcome of th...
"Dr Epstein was wonderful. Explained everything about my eyes and the cataract surgery. Everyone working there was pleasant and helpful. I am extremely happy with the outcome of the surgery."

—Jackie forster

"I had cataract surgery to my right eye, and everything went smooth the silk"

—Mike Rettberg

"Dr. Solarte did cataract surgery on both my eyes with multifocal lenses, and the results are fantastic. Quick recovery, clear vision at all distances, and excellent care. Highly r...
"Dr. Solarte did cataract surgery on both my eyes with multifocal lenses, and the results are fantastic. Quick recovery, clear vision at all distances, and excellent care. Highly recommend her!"

—Viktor Bychok

"I had cataract surgery on both my eyes. I had some qualm before the surgery. It was so smooth and easy with Dr. Michele Solarte, it hardly felt like a surgery! She is one of the f...
"I had cataract surgery on both my eyes. I had some qualm before the surgery. It was so smooth and easy with Dr. Michele Solarte, it hardly felt like a surgery! She is one of the finest, very professional and caring."

—Krishna Hegde

"About two months ago I had a left eye cataract surgery done with the Princeton Eye Group. Dr. Epstein was fantastic and I was 100% pleased with the outcome. The staff in the Somer...
"About two months ago I had a left eye cataract surgery done with the Princeton Eye Group. Dr. Epstein was fantastic and I was 100% pleased with the outcome. The staff in the Somerset office is highly trained and experienced."

—Albert Harrison

"I cannot say enough great things about my cataract surgery experience! Firstly, Dr. Jadico is top notch, nothing short of magnificent, and Stacy is also a wow, in addition to the ...
"I cannot say enough great things about my cataract surgery experience! Firstly, Dr. Jadico is top notch, nothing short of magnificent, and Stacy is also a wow, in addition to the nurses and staff at the office and surgery center!"

—Deb Nagy

"I couldn’t be more pleased with the skills of Dr. Michele Solarte of the Princeton Eye Group and overall professionalism of her team before, during and after my cataract operation...
"I couldn’t be more pleased with the skills of Dr. Michele Solarte of the Princeton Eye Group and overall professionalism of her team before, during and after my cataract operation. I recommend them highly."

—Susie Wilson

"I have been very near sighted my entire life and have had very bad astigmatism. I had cataract surgery with Dr. Solarte. For the first time in my life I have 20/20 vision without ...
"I have been very near sighted my entire life and have had very bad astigmatism. I had cataract surgery with Dr. Solarte. For the first time in my life I have 20/20 vision without corrective lenses. Dr. Solarte was great."

—Stan Lipper

"Princeton Eye Group was fantastic at every step of my cataract surgery. Dr.Epstein was super and explained the whole procedure plainly and made me feel totally relaxed. All locat...
"Princeton Eye Group was fantastic at every step of my cataract surgery. Dr.Epstein was super and explained the whole procedure plainly and made me feel totally relaxed. All locations were awesome."

—Edward rosario

"I recently had cataract surgery at Princeton Eye Group with Dr. Epstein. He is excellent and the surgery was quick and flawless. Dr. Epstein ensures success by excellent preparati...
"I recently had cataract surgery at Princeton Eye Group with Dr. Epstein. He is excellent and the surgery was quick and flawless. Dr. Epstein ensures success by excellent preparation prior to surgery."

—Joe V

"Just had cataract surgery. Everything went great. Dr Jadico was terrific. Everyone in office is very helpful and caring. I highly recommend Princeton Eye Group."

—Susan Ferber

"Last month, Dr. Jadico performed my cataract surgery and my vison is wonderful. In preparation for the surgery, she clearly explained the procedure and my optical options. She rec...
"Last month, Dr. Jadico performed my cataract surgery and my vison is wonderful. In preparation for the surgery, she clearly explained the procedure and my optical options. She recommended the special lenses and I no longer require glasses for reading, computer usage or distance. This was the right decision for my eyes. (Prior to the surgery I was wearing progressive lenses). At the surgery center, she was very patient and reassuring as I nervously waited in the pre-op area. Also, my family has some extenuating medical issues and Dr. Jadico went out of her way to accommodate my time cntrains for the surgery and follow up appointments. This was a very positive experice and my husband and I will contiue to use Dr. Jadico for our vision needs."

—joyce weinberg

"Dr. Solarte performed cataract surgery on both my eyes last January and March 2023. I was amazed at how well I see near and far. Having worn glasses since fourth grade it was a mi...
"Dr. Solarte performed cataract surgery on both my eyes last January and March 2023. I was amazed at how well I see near and far. Having worn glasses since fourth grade it was a miracle to be able to see. A year later it is still the same. "

—Janice Trucano

"“I recently had cataract eye surgery performed by Dr. Jadico and I couldn’t be more impressed with her professionalism and caring manner. From the moment I walked into her office,...
"“I recently had cataract eye surgery performed by Dr. Jadico and I couldn’t be more impressed with her professionalism and caring manner. From the moment I walked into her office, she put me at ease with her warm and compassionate demeanor. She took the time to thoroughly explain the procedure, addressing all my concerns and questions, which helped alleviate my anxiety. Directly prior to the surgery itself, Dr. Jadico exhibited the utmost professionalism and precision. I felt confident that I was in capable hands, and the procedure went smoothly. Her attention to detail and dedication to her craft were truly evident. I can’t thank Dr. Jadico enough for her outstanding care and expertise. My vision has improved significantly, and I attribute that to her skill and commitment to her patients. I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Jadico to anyone in need of eye care. She is a remarkable professional who genuinely cares about her patients’ well-being.”"

—Marie A

"My experience with my cataract surgery was excellent. Dr Epstein provided thorough information and made me confident and comfortable with all decisions. Both surgeries were absolu...
"My experience with my cataract surgery was excellent. Dr Epstein provided thorough information and made me confident and comfortable with all decisions. Both surgeries were absolutely perfect, and I am very happy with the results. I highly recommend Dr Epstein for your cataract surgery."

—Myra Epstein

"Excellent doctors, staff. Dr. Epstein clearly explained what to expect for my cataract surgery and everything went great. He and the doctors in the group are caring and don't rush...
"Excellent doctors, staff. Dr. Epstein clearly explained what to expect for my cataract surgery and everything went great. He and the doctors in the group are caring and don't rush you through an exam, always willing to listen and answer questions. I recommend them very highly."

—Nick & Barbara Santoro

"Dr. Epstein performed cataract surgery on both of my eyes. I am extremely happy with the results. I would recommend him to everyone, very professional and detailed."

—RW Ashburner

"THANK YOU DR. EPSTEIN!!! While considering cataract surgery, I researched the best possible eye doctors and surgery centers near me and Dr. John Epstein quickly rose to the top of...
"THANK YOU DR. EPSTEIN!!! While considering cataract surgery, I researched the best possible eye doctors and surgery centers near me and Dr. John Epstein quickly rose to the top of the list... impeccable educational background -- Princeton, Johns Hopkins, Wills Eye Hospital -- and when I called just to get some info, the man himself called me back and answered all my questions. He is not only an expert in the latest eye surgery procedures, he is a genuinely concerned, caring, reassuring, service-oriented, professional, skilled physician. I've gone ahead with the cataract surgery in both eyes (done one month apart) and am shocked at how easy, pain-free, and best of all EFFECTIVE it has been. Love, love, love Dr. Epstein and all the helpful pros at Princeton Eye Group!!"

—Nancy Ann Thorpe

"I recently completed cataract surgery performed by Doctor Epstein. After needing glasses for almost sixty years I am now experiencing 20/20 vision and feel like a new person. I ha...
"I recently completed cataract surgery performed by Doctor Epstein. After needing glasses for almost sixty years I am now experiencing 20/20 vision and feel like a new person. I have the highest regard for Doctor Epstein as he was totally involved in the process (pre surgery, surgery, post surgery) in a skilled and highly professional manner. He demonstrated concern, answered all my questions, and even followed up each surgery with an evening phone call to see how I was doing."

—Arthur Davis

"At 57 years old, I walked into this office with very bad eyesight. Dr. Michael Wong improved my eyesight through cataract surgery because I had the start of cataracts. I no longer...
"At 57 years old, I walked into this office with very bad eyesight. Dr. Michael Wong improved my eyesight through cataract surgery because I had the start of cataracts. I no longer wear glasses for any reason - not working on the computer, not reading the newspaper. My life has changed dramatically because I can see everything without glasses! I am so pleased with the results."

—Theresa Lizzio

"My wife recently had cataract surgery with one of the special ophthalmologists at Princeton Eye Group:namely, Dr.S.Jadico. She is truly a credit to her profession and did an outst...
"My wife recently had cataract surgery with one of the special ophthalmologists at Princeton Eye Group:namely, Dr.S.Jadico. She is truly a credit to her profession and did an outstanding job with the surgical procedure. Prior to surgery, she took time to explain in detail all pertinent information about the procedure,as well as, post operative care. She has a wonderful disposition and communicates extremely well. My wife felt very comfortable with Dr.Jadico and the surgery was successful. Should you require cataract surgery, Dr Jadico does an excellent job and is a credit to her profession. Jay Weiss, Ph.D"

—Jay Weiss

"Excellent care. Did cataract operations, both eyes. Excellent results. Absolutely no pain! Will continue to go here for eye care. Highly recommend!"

—Carolyn Powell

I recently had cataract surgery performed by Dr. Rahul Tonk...

I recently had cataract surgery performed by Dr. Rahul Tonk, and I’m extremely grateful for the care I received. From the initial consultation to the post-surgery follow-u...

I recently had cataract surgery performed by Dr. Rahul Tonk, and I’m extremely grateful for the care I received. From the initial consultation to the post-surgery follow-ups. He explained the procedure clearly and made sure I understood every step. I felt very comfortable asking questions, nothing ever felt rushed. The experience was excellent.

—Rose Giuffre

In Partnership with WillsEye Hosptial

Meet Princeton Eye Group’s Vision Correction Surgeons

Michael Wong, MD

Ophthalmologist, Co-Founder

A co-founder of Princeton Eye Group, Dr. Wong helped bring LASIK surgery to New Jersey in its earliest days. The New Jersey Inventors Hall of Fame recognized his contributions with its Innovator's Award.

Read Michael’s Bio

R. David Reynolds, MD

Ophthalmologist, Oculplastics Specialist, President

Dr. Reynolds serves as President of Princeton Eye Group. Triple board-certified, he completed fellowship training at two of the field's most respected institutions, Wills Eye Hospital and London's Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Read R.’s Bio

Anita Miedziak, MD

Ophthalmologist, Cornea Specialist

As Director of Cornea and Contact Lens Services, Dr. Miedziak brings fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery to Princeton Eye Group. Her subspecialty education spans Wills Eye Hospital, the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins, and the Barraquer Institute in Bogotá, Colombia.

Read Anita’s Bio

Samuel Liu, MD, PhD

Ophthalmologist, Medical Retina Specialist

Dr. Liu leads Retina and Imaging Services at Princeton Eye Group and serves as Section Chief of Ophthalmology at Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center. Recognized as one of America's Top Doctors every year since 2004, he combines retinal disease expertise with a specialization in refractive surgery, a rare pairing among ophthalmologists.

Read Samuel’s Bio

John Epstein, MD

Ophthalmologist

Dr. Epstein earned his undergraduate degree from Princeton University before completing medical school at Johns Hopkins. Now a Wills Eye Hospital faculty member, he has been repeatedly named among America's Top Doctors and is known for tailoring his approach to cataract surgery and LASIK to each patient.

Read John’s Bio

Suzanne Jadico, MD

Ophthalmologist

Dr. Jadico graduated as valedictorian twice over, first at Penn State's Eberly College of Science and again at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She directs Princeton Eye Group's LASIK and Vision Correction Center and teaches within Wills Eye Hospital's Cataract and Primary Eye Care department.

Read Suzanne’s Bio

Sarah Kuchar, MD

Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma Specialist

A Yale graduate, Dr. Kuchar trained in glaucoma care under some of the field's foremost specialists during her fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital. Beyond her clinical work at Princeton Eye Group, she regularly participates in international humanitarian eye care missions.

Read Sarah’s Bio

Peter D. Murr, MD

Ophthalmologist

Dr. Murr, a New Jersey native, trained at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and treated active-duty service members at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He now offers comprehensive ophthalmology and cataract surgery at Princeton Eye Group and sees patients in both English and Spanish.

Read Peter’s Bio

Michele D. Solarte, MD

Ophthalmologist

Dr. Solarte graduated magna cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis before training at Wills Eye Hospital. Her commitment to global eye health has taken her to Costa Rica, Ecuador, Ghana, and Belize, where she has performed vision-restoring cataract surgery for underserved patients.

Read Michele’s Bio

Daniel Lee, MD

Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma Specialist

Dr. Lee brings fellowship training in glaucoma to Princeton Eye Group and previously directed the Glaucoma Research Center at Wills Eye Hospital. His research contributions include more than 100 publications, and he has served as a primary investigator on clinical trials exploring next-generation glaucoma treatments.

Read Daniel’s Bio

Rahul S. Tonk, MD, MBA

Ophthalmologist, Cornea Specialist

Dr. Tonk joins Princeton Eye Group after serving as an Associate Professor and Associate Medical Director at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, which is ranked the nation's top eye hospital. The Ophthalmologist's global Power List named him a "Rising Star" in recognition of his growing influence in the field.

Read Rahul’s Bio

Cataract Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a cataract?

Common symptoms of cataracts include blurred or cloudy vision, increased glare or halos around lights, difficulty driving at night, faded or yellowed colors, and the need for brighter light when reading. A comprehensive eye examination at Princeton Eye Group will confirm whether cataracts are present and how significantly they are affecting your vision.

At what point should I have cataract surgery?

Surgery is generally recommended when cataracts begin to impact your quality of life or daily activities in a meaningful way. There is no need to rush, but waiting too long is also inadvisable, as very dense cataracts can increase the complexity and risk of the procedure. Your physician will help you determine the right time based on your visual function and lifestyle.

Is cataract surgery safe?

Cataract surgery is one of the safest surgical procedures performed anywhere in medicine, with a success rate exceeding 98%. Serious complications are rare. Princeton Eye Group's surgeons perform the procedure at a surgical center with complication rates among the lowest in the country.

How long does cataract surgery take?

The procedure itself typically takes 15 to 30 minutes per eye. Most patients notice significant improvement in vision within one to two days and are able to resume most normal daily activities the following day.

Can both eyes be done at the same time?

Cataract eye surgery is typically performed on one eye at a time, with the second eye scheduled a few weeks after the first. This allows the first eye to heal and the refractive outcome to be assessed before finalizing the lens selection for the second eye.

Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?

This depends on the type of intraocular lens selected. A standard monofocal lens corrects the cloudiness caused by a cataract, but glasses are typically still needed to focus clearly. A toric lens can correct the vision for distance, typically requiring glasses for reading and intermediate range tasks. Premium lenses, including multifocal, extended depth of focus, and light-adjustable options, can significantly reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses for most patients. Your surgeon will help you understand which lens gives you the best chance of achieving your visual goals.

Does insurance cover cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery performed for medical indications is covered by Medicare and most medical insurance plans. Premium lens upgrades beyond the standard monofocal lens are typically not covered and are available as an elective out-of-pocket upgrade. Our team can help clarify your coverage and discuss the costs associated with premium lens options prior to your procedure.

Do I need a referral for cataract surgery at Princeton Eye Group?

No referral is required. Patients are welcome to schedule directly with Princeton Eye Group at any of our three locations in Princeton, Monroe Township, and Somerset. We also welcome referrals from optometrists and primary care physicians throughout Central New Jersey.