Corns develop when pressure or friction is applied to an area of the foot. They often develop on the toes, where they can cause pain when walking or wearing shoes. Corn removal surgery is a standard procedure for that, but is there any pain after corn removal surgery? Learn more here.
Is Corn Removal Surgery Painful?
Corn removal surgery is a common way to remove corn from the foot. The procedure is performed under anesthetics, so you won’t feel any pain. What you might feel is slight pressure on and around the surgery area.
After the anesthesia wears off, you’ll feel pain and pressure in the operated toe. It’s important not to panic when this happens and to follow the recovery instructions carefully. Your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics to avoid inflammation, and painkillers, to reduce pain.
Overall, corn removal surgery isn’t dangerous, long, or painful. It’s a procedure that lasts around 30 minutes to an hour (depending on the hardness and depth of the corn,) and it’s standard practice for foot surgeons.
How Long Does the Recovery Process Last?
Corn surgery is a serious procedure, so it’s important to take the time you need to recover properly. Having realistic expectations about this process is essential.
Recovery can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months; it’s definitely a slow process as the wound heals. The pain can last several days or weeks afterward, but that depends on the individual and the severity of the surgery.
Walking is possible several days after the procedure, but you might have to wear a surgical shoe to ensure you don’t add pressure to the operated foot and toes.
Some people may experience minor discomfort and swelling, while others may have more severe pain and inflammation. Follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery, and don’t push yourself too hard.
Will You Feel Pain After Corn Removal Surgery?
Any minimally invasive surgery is a relatively common and painless procedure, but the pain after it can’t be avoided. There is usually significant swelling and bruising; the pain can sometimes be severe and last for weeks.
Still, you don’t have to be too scared to get this surgery, as swelling and pain are typical reactions to this and all similar procedures. You can easily manage the pain by using ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication.
Talk to your doctor about what to expect and how to manage the pain after surgery.
What Kind of Care Do You Need After Corn Removal Surgery?
After corn removal, keeping the wound clean and dry is vital. You will likely have a dressing over the incision site that needs to be changed regularly. Your doctor will instruct you on how to care for it and when to change it.
You may also need to take antibiotics to help prevent infection since that’s a complication that could arise after surgery. In fact, your doctor may prescribe them anyway to avoid inflammation beforehand.
What Should You Do if the Pain Continues for a While?
If pain and swelling continue for a while, contact your doctor for advice. You may need to see them in their office for a more thorough evaluation, redressing of the suture, and additional guidance.
Here’s how to reduce pain and swelling after corn removal surgery:
- Ice packs,
- OTC pain medications,
- Corn pads,
- Toe separators,
- Cold compresses.
Talk to Your Surgeon in Miami About the Pain Levels Before the Surgery
For effective corn treatment, check out Luxe Foot Surgery. Our Miami-based business is a professional and luxurious space with state-of-the-art facilities and surgical equipment.
If you need corns removed, contact us every weekday between 9 AM and 5 PM, or send us a form via the website, where you can also book a free consultation. Let our surgeon help you get back on your feet.
FAQ
Here are the answers to some common questions about corn removal surgery. They’ll help you stay informed and confident about surgery.
Can You Walk After Corn Removal?
Most patients can walk soon after corn removal. Walking helps decrease the risk of developing a blood clot in your leg and allows incisions to heal properly. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on when to start walking and how much.
What to Do After Removing a Corn?
If you are scheduled for corn removal surgery, you can do this for a few days afterward:
- Keep your foot elevated as much as possible,
- Change your wound dressing per the instructions of your doctor,
- Take antibiotics and OTC pain medication,
- Rest when you become tired to avoid pressure on your feet,
- Apply a cold compress to your foot periodically.
These methods will help keep the swelling down and minimize discomfort.
How Long Does It Take for Toe to Heal After Corn Removal?
The recovery and healing last between a few days and a few weeks. The most severe cases can take up to three months to heal completely.
Understandably, some people can’t wait long to return to normal. However, while resting is integral, some movement and physical therapy can benefit you more than doing nothing.
A lot depends on how you treat recovery from the beginning because the more serious you are about it from the start, the sooner you’ll heal.
Does Getting Corns Removed Hurt?
Corn removal surgery doesn’t hurt. The surgeon will provide a decent amount of local anesthesia so you don’t feel any pain while they work on your toes. However, you’ll likely feel some pressure and discomfort, which is normal.
The most pain you’ll experience will come after the surgery, which can be taken care of easily and quickly, according to your surgeon’s instructions.
