Wow, it's like I've landed on the mirror universe, because I had no idea so many people were so uncomfortable getting compliments: I'm not shy about my comments in real life and I hand out compliments like confetti at a carnival (even if I try and limit myself on-line for the creepiness factor mentioned by sidious). If I see something I like (someone's smile, eyes, or just their shirt), I might as well say it. Maybe there is a cultural divide somewhere, because here it's very common for people to be very complimenting to each other. I don't get tons of them, but I do get them, and it's nice.
Obviously, getting a compliment from a lovely lady tingles all the right spots, but I appreciate compliments from guys, too. It just means they like something about me, so I don't see any downsides!