Sex change refers to a surgical procedure that is known as sex reassignment surgery. This type of surgery transforms the appearance of a person's body into a person of the opposite gender and has been an option for adults for many years. Recent studies are highlighting the issue of teens and sex change surgery. Many doctors do not operate on individuals younger than 18 years old because of the permanence of the surgery. Instead, doctors and medical professionals suggest hormonal treatments which are temporary. Doctors have other concerns when it comes to teens and sex change surgery. The procedures can be extremely painful and are known to have risky complications and less than perfect outcomes. Insurance companies are not prepared to pay for this type of surgery for teens and getting health care approval can be a tricky process. Currently, advocates are speaking out for teens who wish to have this type of surgery.