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Former Health Official Morris Waxler Dies, Regrets Lasik Approval

2/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Dr. Morris Waxler, a former federal health official, died January 2 at age 88 from a stroke.
He helped approve laser eye surgery in 1999 but later expressed regret.
After patients reported vision issues and chronic pain, he acknowledged serious safety concerns about Lasik.
From 1996 to 2000, he led efforts to raise standards for laser devices used in surgery.

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Story summary

Dr. Morris Waxler, a former federal health official, died January 2 at age 88 from a stroke.
He helped approve laser eye surgery in 1999 but later expressed regret.
After patients reported vision issues and chronic pain, he acknowledged serious safety concerns about Lasik.
From 1996 to 2000, he led efforts to raise standards for laser devices used in surgery.