I rarely post on this part of the forum anymore, but thought I could put my two pennorth in here, given the OP's clarifying post.
I am now pre op undergoing my RLE and have been living FT since 1st January. I don't regret a single minute, yes there have been issues with family and a close relationship but after too many years of denial I had to finally be true to myself.
I guess I'm lucky cos I don't need a wig, although using hair straighteners and trying to get my hair something like it is after I've left the hairdressers is a challenge, but having a nice feminine style helps an awful lot in the confidence stakes.
I don't get a thrill from living as a woman, because that's what I am (my passport and driving licence say so too!! )