Corn Removal

Corn Removal

Description And Symptoms
Methods/Solutions
Effects/ Causes
Faq

When your bone rubs against your soft tissue it causes your skin to become thick & hard, forming corn. There are many ways to remove them including removing the thick hard skin or surgically modifying the bone.

While at-home remedies like soaking and pumice stones can handle milder corns, persistent and troublesome ones often require a more targeted approach: Corn Removal Surgery.

Here’s why surgery might be the answer and the benefits it offers:

  • Long-Term Relief: Unlike temporary fixes from at-home methods, surgery provides a lasting solution, preventing the corn from recurring in the same spot.

  • Faster Healing: While home remedies might take weeks or even months to show significant improvement, surgery often leads to quicker healing and recovery, depending on the procedure’s complexity.

  • Precise Targeting: Surgical techniques like shaving, paring, and punch excision allow for targeted removal of the corn, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

  • Friction: The primary culprit behind corns is repeated friction against your skin. This can come from ill-fitting shoes, repetitive work tasks, or even bone misalignment.
  • Pressure: Areas that bear significant weight, like the balls of your feet, are more prone to corn formation.
  • Thickening: As the skin endures friction and pressure, it responds by thickening to protect itself. This creates the hard, calloused corn.
  • Pain and discomfort: The thickened skin can rub against surrounding tissues, causing tenderness, burning, and even sharp pain.
  • Mobility issues: In severe cases, the presence of large corns can affect your gait and cause difficulty walking or standing.

What are corns, anyway?

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to friction or pressure. They usually form on the tops or sides of toes, but can also appear on other areas of the foot.

Why do I get corns?

The main culprit behind corns is repeated rubbing or pressure against your skin. This can come from ill-fitting shoes, repetitive work tasks, or even bone misalignment.

Can I remove corns myself?

For mild corns, self-care can be your best friend! Soak your feet regularly, gently exfoliate with a pumice stone, and moisturize to keep the skin soft. Over-the-counter salicylic acid pads can also help gradually dissolve the thickened skin.

When should I see a doctor about a corn?

If self-care isn't helping, the corn is causing significant pain, or you have diabetes or another condition that affects foot circulation, consult a podiatrist. They can assess the corn and recommend the best treatment option.

What are the different types of corn removal procedures?

Depending on the type and severity of your corn, your podiatrist might recommend:

  • Shaving: Removing the thickened layers of skin with a scalpel or blade.
  • Paring: Gradually removing the hardened skin with a sharp instrument.
  • Punch excision: Removing the entire corn, including its root, with a small circular punch tool.
  • Bunionectomy/Hammertoe correction: If bone misalignment contributes to the corn, surgery to correct the underlying bone deformity might be necessary.

How painful is corn removal surgery?

Most corn removal procedures are minimally invasive and involve local anesthesia. You might experience some discomfort afterwards, but it's usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.

How long does it take to recover from corn removal surgery?

Recovery time depends on the type of procedure you have. For simple shaving or paring, you might be back on your feet the same day. More complex procedures like punch excision might require a few days of rest and wearing a bandage or special shoe.

How can I prevent corns from coming back?

Wearing well-fitting shoes, minimizing repetitive pressure on your feet, and maintaining good foot hygiene are key! If bone misalignment plays a role, consult your podiatrist about orthotics or other preventive measures.

Are there any home remedies for corns that actually work?

Soaking your feet, using pumice stones, and applying moisturizing creams can help soften mild corns and prevent them from getting worse. However, avoid using harsh chemicals or cutting corns yourself, as this can lead to infection.

Can I walk on a corn after removal?

For simple procedures, gentle walking is usually okay. However, follow your podiatrist's specific instructions regarding weight bearing and activity restrictions after surgery.

Result

*Result may vary person to person.