The general medical meaning of the "corn" is that it is a buildup of compacted keratin that continually exerts pressure on the skin especially whenever shoes are worn. Corns most often occur on the soles of a patient's feet.

If a corn is specifically large then a podiatrist may have to shave it off. This is the most efficient (and safest) form of corn removal. An experienced podiatrist will shave the corn off using a scalpel blade. Corns are some of the most frequently occurring problems that are brought to the attention of podiatrists. Corns can occur anywhere on a patient's foot. Symptoms of a corn can vary from a mild callus to an infected ulcer. Corns can be referred to by a multitude of names: hyperkeratosis, clavus, tyloma, and heloma.

Following post surgical care recommendations as outlined by a surgeon or surgical podiatrist is important. In many cases pain medication may be necessary in the days following corn removal (dependent upon the extent of the surgical area, etc.) Most should refrain from getting the surgical area wet (keep it out of the water or keep it wrapped in water proof wrappings).  

Making Corn Removal Effective:

Sometimes people forget that corn removal is a temporary solution. The presence of a corn means that there was a friction/pressure problem. Corns are caused by friction and pressure so when attempting to remove a corn the very first step should be to relieve or reduce this pressure. Sometimes this involves getting new shoes. In other cases individuals just need to apply a soft moleskin pad over the corn. Even if a corn is surgically removed it will likely return unless the pressure causing the issue is relieved/treated.

In order to prevent corns patients should make sure that shoes fit properly. If shoes are either too big or too small it can be problematic. Patients who are on their feet for long periods of time in the day should consider shock absorbing inserts that can decrease the problems created by friction and pressure. They should also avoid wearing nylons and/or tight socks. These items decrease the amount of circulation of air around the feet. If a patient endures chronic corn problems there may be a serious, underlying problem like crooked or broken toes. These issues should be identified and addressed by a surgical professional.

Corn Removal Recovery:

In general corn removal is a minimally invasive procedure. This means that the least amount of harm is done to the body as possible. It also means that recovery time is minimal. Most patients indicate that the area is sore for a short period of time post-surgery, but this is the extent of complications for most after corn removal surgery.