Yes, it is normal to see your own nose.
As the reference points out, it's something many people experience, even though it's rarely explicitly discussed. "Yes, Johnny, we all see our noses. Don't be alarmed.” While the brain often filters out this visual information, the fact remains that our noses are within our field of vision.
Why We Don't Always Notice It
The reason we don't constantly focus on seeing our noses is due to a combination of factors:
- Brain Filtering: Our brains are remarkably adept at filtering out constant, unchanging stimuli to focus on more relevant information. This is why you don't constantly feel your clothes against your skin or notice the hum of a refrigerator until it stops.
- Binocular Vision: Because we have two eyes, our brains create a single, unified image. The nose appears in the periphery of each eye's view but is largely "filled in" by the brain using information from both eyes.
- Movement and Change: Our visual system is designed to detect movement and change. Since our noses are stationary relative to our eyes, they don't attract our attention unless we consciously focus on them.
Focusing on Your Nose
If you consciously try to see your nose, you absolutely can. You might notice:
- The shape of your nose.
- The texture of your skin.
- That it appears blurry.
- It is always there.
When to Be Concerned
Seeing your nose is not a cause for concern. However, if you experience any sudden changes in your vision, such as blurriness, double vision, or visual distortions unrelated to your nose, you should consult an eye doctor.
