Over the rainbow

"I know this would be better if I were post-op."

Post op is the Holy Grail for many, many transitioners.

One day you are being wheeled into surgery and the next the sun will be brighter, your teeth whiter, puppies and bluebirds will follow you around, and all your clothes will have that fresh, just washed smell.

Right?

C'mon, RIGHT???

In reality not much changes. If you heal quickly and regain your mobility right away, most people won't even know (barring those of you who live in nudist colonies).

An MTF individual will add a new personal hygiene chore to her daily routine and you HAVE to be sure there is always TP when you have to go to the bathroom.

Life goes on. Your personality doesn't magically change. If you were a shy wallflower before then, sorry to say, that probably won't be any different.

What does change?

Legal identity and SOME level of protection if you decide to get naked with someone.

Oh, and sex - that changes quite a bit.

So why do people expect the big difference?

The legal and safety factor play a big part. You now have the potential to shoot down any challenge to your gender.

"Do you have a penis?"

"No, but I keep my boyfriends' testicles in my purse. Why, did you lose yours?"

"No no no. DID you have a penis?"

"Yes, didn't I mention the boyfriend?"

Getting the body in sync with the mind can improve your confidence but it won't change your personality. At least it shouldn't.