Some background: Me - Late 50s male. Happily married.

My doctor: Ophthamologist. Attractive woman. 30-ish. Happily married.

Side note: I accidentally ran into her and her husband at a party about a month ago. Nice lady.

So, I went into her office yesterday morning for an appointment. When she came in the room, I noticed that her zipper was "XYZ" and her fly was totally open. Gaping open and pretty distracting. So, I try to make friendly conversation, eyes up.

As part of her job, she's straddling the chair and equipment as she's examining my eyes. Awkward. Continue eyes up!

I thought about mentioning "XYZ" to her, but didn't want to come across as a creepy old guy that's hitting on her. I didn't want to embarrass her. So, in the end, I didn't say anything, and she left.

So, is it better to say something, or not? I think she probably figured it out next time she went to the bathroom.

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[–] 32 points 5 months ago*

It's only as awkward as you and the other person makes it, and you sound like you made it pretty awkward for yourself before even giving the other person a chance to be non-awkward about it.

The way I see it: If it's something the person can fix immediately, like a downed zipper or food in their teeth or visible booger, tell them (discreetly) immediately. If it's not fixable at the time, don't draw attention to it.

And I dont know how "oh, you seem to have a zipper malfunction" could ever be seen as trying to hit on someone, so you'd likely have been fine if you hadn't blown it out of proportion.

Additionally: if you start waffling about and overexplaing, youll make it awkward for yhe other person, if you just mention it casually like you'd mention the weather they won't feel like its a big deal for you to have seen it. I would appreciate it at least, rather than notice by myself and wonder how many people have seen my underwear or visible booger during the day.

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