When I was 12 or 13, my eye doctor told my mom that if my eyes kept getting worse at the rate they were, I'd be blind by the time I was 20. I don't know what my numbers are, off the top of my head, I am veeeerrrry nearsighted, but still able to see with my glasses! And they did slow down, in fact when I last got them checked, it finally wasn't that big a correction needed - it's been less and less each time since I was about 28 or 30, I think. My glasses are hugely expensive, but sight is priceless!

Do get the compressed plastic lenses. They are wonderfully light, and easier to keep clean (but get to scratch-resistant coating). And if anyone rudely asks why you don't have eyelashes, ask them why don't they have manners?