Follow-up study of female transsexuals

The aim of this study was to examine the social and sexual adjustments of Singapore female transsexuals following sex reassignment surgery. All female transsexuals who were operated on since 1989 were interviewed. There were a total of 17 transsexuals with a mean age of 29 years (range, 20 to 41 years) at the time of inception. Before surgery, all were single. After surgery, 6 out of 11 subjects had married abroad. Before surgery, some had problems with identity cards, passports, travelling and work which were resolved with surgery. They were better accepted and had better sexual adjustment after surgery. All were satisfied with the change in sex, but only 65% were satisfied with the surgery. Only 59% said they were willing to undergo the operation again. After a test case in court, they were unable to marry in Singapore. Their primary motive to undergo sex reassignment surgery was to become a member of the opposite sex, so that they could be recognised socially and legally.