Trans vs. Self-Image: What is the difference?

[bingunginter]

It is difficult (and very looked down upon in society) for a person who feels "ugly" to improve their situation, but for trans*, options like HRT and other surgeries are more widely available

Hardly, ugly people has similar option to improve the situation like make up, exercise, cosmetic surgery, etc

Would you be able to make peace with your body?

Absolutely because I never have war with my body in the first place.

Are we just taking the easy way out instead of conquering societal expectations and stereotypes?

Don't know about others but yes I am taking the easier way out, lol. Why choose harder way when there is easier option.
I don't have slight interest on societal expectations and stereotypes.

Is looking in the mirror wishing you were more masculine/feminine the same as wishing you looked more handsome/pretty?

very much yes

[beaver]

Oops I haven't been back in here for a while.

Beaver, I think you're comparing Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) with gender dysphoria.

I have to admit that I have also considered whether there is some cross-over; a thought which has probably played some part in my not transitioning (laziness is another, so I wouldn't read too much into my views). Consequently, I think that your fears of offending and causing outrage are valid.

Nonetheless, it's my belief that when I replace "BDD" with "trans*" in almost any definition of BDD, I see that there are a lot of similarities. Of course, the one big differences is that health professionals seek to cure the BDD sufferer of their obsession.

But instead of reading my uninformed ravings, this may be more useful: http://www.hemingways.org/GIDinfo/BDD.htm

That's an enlightening link, thanks JS. The part about the different in treatments is especially helpful.

Perhaps I have been looking at both issues too objectively. The way a person feels and think from the inside have such subtle differences that are so hard to pick out. There are so many reasons why one seeks transition, it is truly great to see the views that everyone has on this topic.