What to expect from curettage and cautery for corns and calluses

Curettage uses a small instrument to remove the hard core of a corn or excess callus. Cautery applies controlled heat to the treated surface, helping limit bleeding and treat remaining tissue. The clinician first checks that the thickened skin is a corn or callus and looks for pressure from footwear, foot shape or repeated friction. Local anaesthetic can make the area numb while the work is done. A small dressing is usually placed afterward.

Keep the dressing clean and dry for the period your clinician gives you. When changing it, wash your hands, follow the wound-care instructions and avoid picking at a crust. Wear roomy shoes and reduce pressure on the treated spot while it settles. Do not cut nearby hard skin yourself, because ongoing friction can allow the thickening to return. Ask whether a cushioned pad, footwear change or assessment of your walking pattern would help prevent recurrence.

Contact the clinic if pain is increasing rather than easing, the dressing becomes repeatedly soaked, or the wound develops spreading redness, warmth, swelling or drainage. Fever or feeling unwell also warrants prompt advice. People with diabetes, reduced sensation, poor circulation or a history of slow-healing foot wounds should use the clinician's specific follow-up plan and seek advice early if the area changes.

Ask what caused the pressure, how long to protect the site, and which shoes or pads are suitable. Confirm whether the lesion needs review if it returns, and when normal walking or exercise can resume.