Corn Removal Surgery Cost in India | Foot Care Guide

Corn Removal Surgery: Types, Costs & Recovery Explained

Corn removal surgery is a medical procedure used to remove corns and calluses, most commonly from the feet. Corns are small, thick areas of skin that develop due to repeated pressure or friction. While they can appear on any part of the body, they are usually found on the sides of the big toe and little toe.

Most foot corns are not serious, but if left untreated, they can lead to discomfort and even infections. While some can be treated at home with creams or pads, more stubborn or painful corns may need a doctor’s care or even minor surgery.

Learn about the factors affecting foot corn removal surgery, their types and costs, and other crucial aspects.  

What Factors Affect the Cost of Corn Removal Surgery?

The cost of foot corn removal surgery in India can vary depending on several factors. Here are the major aspects that can influence the total price:

• Type of Surgery: Simple corn removal costs less, whereas complex surgeries cost more.
• Surgical Method: Chemical or laser treatments are less expensive, while open surgery incurs higher costs.
• Hospital Location: Big-city hospitals usually charge more than small-town clinics.
• Surgeon’s Experience: Experienced doctors may have higher fees.
• Other Medical Charges: Anaesthesia, OT, room rent, and nursing add to the cost.
• Before & After Care: Medicines, follow-ups, and foot care also increase expenses.

What is the Cost of Corn Removal Surgeries?

Below are an overview of the most commonly used procedures and their average cost in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Pune, and Bangalore.

The below listed includes "Surgical Procedures" (Excision, Curettage) from "Non-Surgical/Office-Based Procedures" (Laser, Chemical Cauterization, Electrosurgery). Note that these prices are approximate and can vary depending on the hospital, surgeon’s experience, and the complexity of the case:

1. Excision Surgery

• Excision or shaving involves precisely removing the thickened skin of the corn.
• This is a superficial procedure that typically does not require stitches. The area is simply dressed and heals naturally.
• The average cost of this procedure in major cities is ₹5,000 – ₹10,000.

2. Curettage Surgery

• This procedure uses a small, spoon-shaped instrument called a curette to scrape away the corn and thickened skin.
• Like excision, it is typically done under local anaesthesia and is suitable for less severe corns.
• The average cost of curettage surgery is ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 across cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Pune, and Bangalore.

3. Laser

• Laser surgery involves vaporising the corn and surrounding tissues using focused laser energy.
• It is a minimally invasive technique that usually results in less bleeding and quicker recovery.
• The average cost of laser corn removal surgery ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 in major metropolitan areas.

4. Chemical Cauterization

• Chemical cauterization uses agents like salicylic acid to dissolve the corn gradually.
• This method is often paired with excision or curettage for better results and is non-invasive in nature.
• In major cities, the average cost for this procedure is ₹15,000 – ₹20,000.

5. Electrosurgery (Electrocautery)

• This technique uses an electric current to burn and remove the corn.
• Performed under local anaesthesia, electrosurgery is highly effective for deeper or more resistant corns.
• The average cost of electrosurgery for corn removal is ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Pune, and Bangalore.

What Happens if a Foot Corn is Not Treated?

If a foot corn is ignored and not treated, it can get worse over time. This may lead to serious issues such as:

• Ongoing pain and discomfort
• Inflammation of the joints or tissues (like bursitis or septic arthritis)
• Bone infection (osteomyelitis)
• Blisters or skin infections

These conditions can make walking painful and may require more intensive treatment later. That’s why it’s crucial to treat corn early before it causes complications.

How Long Does It Take to Recover After Corn Removal?

Healing time depends on the procedure. For superficial removal, the skin heals in 1-2 weeks. If the surgery involves correcting an underlying bone deformity, recovery may take 3-6 weeks with restricted weight-bearing. However, the healing time can vary from person to person. It depends on:

• The type of treatment used
• Severity of the condition
• Patient's overall health and healing ability

Foot corns can cause ongoing pain and discomfort if not treated properly, but with timely care and the right treatment, they can be effectively removed and managed. Simple preventive steps like wearing well-fitted footwear, reducing pressure on the feet, and maintaining foot hygiene can help prevent their recurrence.