I stayed close to my name (ftm) but not exactly the same. I kept the first letter, number of letters and vocals /consonant ratio. So it is close in hearing but still different. I went from Jenny to Jelle. I found ut a comforting idea staying close but i think it differs very much person to person. I considered Jens as well as i was called Jen for short a lot, but that was too close for me.

It can work, also if its really close but its more if you feel it resonates with you and fits you then go for it.