Paring of Corns/Calluses

Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction. They often develop on the feet, especially over bony areas or pressure points. Although they are not life-threatening, they can cause significant discomfort when walking and standing for long periods.

How does Paring works?

Paring is a straightforward treatment that helps reduce the discomfort caused by corns or calluses. During the procedure, our dermatologist uses a sterile blade to gently remove the thickened skin. It does not address the root cause, such as repeated friction or pressure from footwear or walking patterns. However, it helps to reduce pressure on the area and relieve pain.

To reduce the chances of the corn or callus returning, our dermatologist may recommend changes to your footwear or advise on pressure protection. We may also refer you to a podiatrist for orthotics (customised shoe inserts) to help relieve pressure and prevent recurrence.

What are the benefits of Corn and Callus Paring?

While the procedure reduces pressure and relieves pain, it also offers the following benefits:

• Improved comfort when walking or standing for prolonged periods
• Makes wearing shoes more comfortable, especially over pressure points
• Reduces the risk of skin breakdown and secondary infection
• Leaves the treated area smoother and less prone to irritation

Why should you consider Corn and Callus Paring?

You may benefit from paring if the corn or callus is starting to cause discomfort or affect your daily activities. While these thickened areas of skin are not harmful, they can become painful over time if left untreated.

Thickened skin can become dry or cracked, causing discomfort in shoes and limiting movement. If they keep returning despite home care or over-the-counter treatments, professional paring can relieve pressure, improve comfort and help you move more easily.

What to Expect?

Paring is done in a clean clinical setting by a trained dermatologist. It is a quick and safe procedure designed to remove the thickened skin without damaging the healthy skin underneath. Most patients find it comfortable and can walk out of the clinic shortly after.

Before the procedure

Our dermatologists will first examine the affected area to confirm that the thickened skin is due to a corn or callus. They will also ask about your symptoms, such as pain, tenderness or changes in how the area feels when walking or standing.

Based on the examination, they will explain the process of paring and what to expect. If needed, they may discuss how to reduce friction or pressure in that area moving forward.

During the procedure

The area is first cleansed. Then, our dermatologist will carefully pare down the thickened skin using a sterile surgical blade. This is done layer by layer to ensure safe removal of the hardened skin without cutting into healthy tissue.

Most patients do not need any anaesthesia because the thickened outer skin has few or no nerve endings. The process is generally painless and well-tolerated.

It usually takes less than 15 minutes.

After the procedure

Once the thickened skin is removed, you will feel relief from pressure or discomfort.

If needed, a small dressing or plaster may be applied to protect the area, especially if the skin underneath is sensitive.

You will be given instructions on how to take care of the area after the procedure. This includes:

• Avoiding direct pressure for a few days
• Keeping it clean
• Monitoring for any signs of infection
• Wearing suitable footwear or padding to reduce the chances of recurrence

Can I still undergo Paring if I have diabetes?

Diabetics can still undergo paring. But extra care is needed as the skin is more prone to injury, slow healing or infection. That is why it is important to have the procedure done by a trained dermatologist in a clean clinical setting.

Our dermatologist will assess your condition carefully and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety. If needed, they may adjust the treatment plan or provide extra aftercare advice to support proper healing.

How many sessions do I need?

Typically, one session is enough to remove the thickened skin. The results are usually immediate, so many patients do not need further treatment.

However, if the cause, such as ongoing pressure or friction, is not addressed, the corn or callus may return over time. If regrowth occurs, we may recommend follow-up sessions to relieve symptoms and maintain comfort.

For patients with frequent recurrences, additional measures may include improving footwear fit, adding cushioning or protective pads and adjusting activities that cause repeated friction. Where needed, a referral to a podiatrist can help assess foot mechanics and pressure distribution.