Colpectomy
Colpectomy permanently removes the vaginal cavity: the lining is removed, then the vaginal opening is closed with stitches. Vaginal discharge stops, and the anatomy of the perineum is brought into line with the gender affirmation project. Dr Manon Belhoste performs this procedure in Marseille for French and international patients. Prices are still being negotiated with the relevant authorities and partner clinics.
How is the procedure performed?
Dr Manon Belhoste performs colpectomy or vaginal closure, which can be combined with lengthening of the urethra to prepare for a possible phalloplasty.
Colpectomy alone
Removes the lining of the vagina, then stitches the vaginal opening to close the canal.
Colpectomy with urethral lengthening
Closes the vagina and lengthens the start of the urethra forwards, using skin from the labia minora.
What happens during the procedure and recovery?
Dr Manon Belhoste performs colpectomy in Marseille. The clinic where the operation will be carried out is still being discussed.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia. |
| Duration | At least 2 to 3 hours. |
| Hospital stay | 3 to 5 days in hospital. |
| Equipment | A drain may be placed. Its removal depends on its output and on progress. - A urinary catheter is placed temporarily. Its removal depends on whether urethral reconstruction is carried out at the same time. |
| Exertion, lifting and sport | Carrying heavy loads, abdominal strain and sport are stopped for 6 weeks to 3 months. |
| Progress | Some discomfort in the perineum, a pulling sensation and swelling may last several weeks. Deep healing and getting used to urinating take several weeks to several months. The labia majora, labia minora and clitoris are preserved. |
Frequently asked questions
Colpectomy permanently removes the vaginal cavity and stops vaginal discharge, giving a perineal anatomy in line with the gender affirmation project. Its main limit is that it is irreversible: losing the vaginal canal is permanent, and any vaginal penetration becomes impossible. Depending on the plan, some genital procedures can be carried out without closing the vaginal canal, and it remains possible not to operate or to delay. A complication may require further treatment, drainage, a longer hospital stay or a second operation.
Before colpectomy, Dr Manon Belhoste and the anaesthetist give instructions on fasting, preparation and medicines, which must be followed strictly. Stopping tobacco and nicotine is required, as both increase the risk of healing problems and necrosis. All treatments and supplements must be reported, in particular anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, anti-inflammatories, hormone treatments and diabetes treatments, and none is stopped on your own.
After colpectomy, strict bed rest is required for the first 24 hours, then walking gradually resumes in small steps. Carrying heavy loads, abdominal strain and sport are stopped for the first few weeks. Baths and swimming pools are avoided until healing is complete. At discharge, Dr Manon Belhoste indicates the duration of the break from sexual activity. No dilation is needed.
Colpectomy is permanent. Once the vagina is closed, there is no longer a vaginal canal, and any later vaginal penetration becomes impossible.
Lengthening the start of the urethra prepares for a further lengthening further along it. Standing urination depends on the whole urethral reconstruction, particularly within a phalloplasty.
The price of colpectomy includes Dr Manon Belhoste's fees, consultations after the operation, anaesthesia and clinic fees.
Dr Manon Belhoste
Dr Manon Belhoste is a plastic surgeon, Doctor of Medicine and holder of the European Diploma in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery.
Dr Manon Belhoste's background
The practice
Dr Manon Belhoste holds consultations at her practice, 1 Boulevard Lord Duveen, 13008 Marseille, from Monday to Thursday.
Operations take place at the La Phocéanne polyclinic and the Phénicia clinic, in Marseille.
The practice and the clinicsPage updated on 10 October 2026.