In this true story, a sexually frustrated veteran undergoes the world's first male-to-female surgical change.

Fascinated by all things feminine since childhood, George Jorgensen, Jr., secures a position as a fashion photographer for a top advertising agency. During an assignment in Southampton, however, the models dispute Jorgensen's masculinity, and his mentor, homosexual executive Jess Wanner, attempts to rape him. The photographer contemplates suicide, but instead participates in a series of hormone experiments conducted by Professor Estabrook and agrees to a sex change operation performed by Denmark's leading surgeon, Dr. Victor Dahlman. While recuperating from the successful operation, the first of its kind, Jorgensen remains in Copenhagen living with his supportive Aunt Thora and assuming the name of her dead daughter Christine. Dreading publicity, the photographer shuns all reporters except magazine writer Tom Crawford. During an extensive interview in a secluded mountain cabin the two fall in love, and Crawford persuades Jorgensen to return to New York and begin life anew.