Breast implants, nose jobs, any plastic surgery (not including restorative for injuries), and I don't remember what else, were (and still are, I believe) called "elective procedures". You requested permission from your Chain-of-Command, took leave, and paid for it (and any follow-up care) out-of-pocket. Until recently (late-90's maybe?) LASIK or any other corrective eyes surgery was also an "elective" procedure. I'm all for anybody that qualifies to join the military and serve, but don't join just to have the Taxpayer pay for your "gender re-assignment" procedures and meds. If you come to that decision after you join, then go the route that is required for any other "elective"procedure... or get out.