To Lasik, or Not to Lasik?
That is the question. Ever since my wife and I put our finances in order, we’ve been looking forward to pursuing larger goals like becoming debt free, paying our son’s way through college, or the ever-popular buying a house. More immediately, though, I’ve been entertaining the idea of getting laser eye surgery.
I’ve had poor vision for most of my life. I know the cost would be significant, but it’s no longer prohibitive. The procedure itself is a little off-putting, but I think I could handle it. And I’m not particularly worried about any long-term risks. If I decide to go through with it, there’s really nothing standing in my way.
My real concern, however, is a loss of identity. As William James says in the Principles of Psychology, “The old saying that the human person is composed of three parts – soul, body and clothes – is more than a joke.” I’ve worn glasses since I was nine years old. They’re a part of who I am. I probably wouldn’t be the same shameless nerd I am today if I’d never needed them. If I don’t wear them anymore, will that diminish me? Will I see someone else when I look in the mirror?
Just as important as how I see myself, though, is how others will see me. I find that people with glasses are regarded as more intelligent. If I no longer wear glasses, will that make others regard me differently? Since I’m in a computer-centric field, will it hurt my career prospects?
I’m probably overreacting, but that’s my predicament in a nutshell. I know getting laser eye surgery won’t fundamentally change who I am. Still, I haven’t gone a day without glasses for the past decade and a half. If I stop wearing them, will it alter the identity that I’ve established? What do you think I should do?
November 25th, 2007 at 10:48 pm
I guess since I’m the only voter, my vote wins
November 25th, 2007 at 11:34 pm
For the time being. Have patience and we’ll see what others think.
November 26th, 2007 at 10:14 am
Your Mother will always know who you are and will love you no matter what!
November 26th, 2007 at 11:52 am
*clears throat*
I don’t think its your glasses that give you the appearance of being a “shameless nerd.”
*ducks*
In all serious, I can relate with you on glasses being a part of one’s identity. I’ve had mine a long, long time as well (since third grade, I believe) and I don’t know if I could go without mine either. We’re at a time as well where our vision insurance would give a sizable discount on Lasik and the idea is possible, but I’m just not sure about it. I have no fear of procedures being done to my eyes, but as blind as I am, what if it doesn’t work? I also wouldn’t be able to hide my shifty eyes behind my glasses anymore.
So…perhaps you need a “Not sure” choice as well.