Plantar hyperkeratosis, commonly known as hard skin or callus on the sole of the foot, is often more than just a cosmetic issue. It usually develops due to abnormal pressure or misalignment in the bones of the forefoot, leading to thickened skin, pain, and difficulty wearing shoes.

While conservative treatments such as podiatry care, footwear modification, and orthotics can help, some patients experience recurring or severe symptoms. In these cases, minimally invasive foot surgery (MIS) offers an effective long-term solution.

Mr. Turab Syed, a highly experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle surgery, provides MIS treatments for plantar hyperkeratosis at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton. This guide explains what the condition is, how MIS helps, and what to expect before and after treatment.

What is plantar hyperkeratosis?

Plantar hyperkeratosis refers to thickened or hardened skin on the sole of the foot, often over the ball of the foot or under the toes. It develops when constant friction or pressure causes the skin to build protective layers.

Common causes include:

• Toe deformities such as hammertoes or bunions.
• Metatarsal overload – excess pressure on certain bones of the forefoot.
• High arches or flat feet affecting weight distribution.
• Ill-fitting shoes or high heels.
• Arthritis or previous injury altering the way you walk.

Over time, the thickened skin can become painful, crack, or develop underlying inflammation.

Who can benefit from MIS for plantar hyperkeratosis?

You may benefit from minimally invasive surgery if you:

• Have recurring painful calluses despite podiatry care.
• Experience forefoot pain that limits walking or standing.
• Have a bony prominence or structural abnormality causing pressure.
• Prefer a minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions and faster recovery.

Mr. Syed conducts a full clinical examination, often including X-rays or gait analysis, to determine the underlying cause and plan the best treatment approach.

MIS for plantar hyperkeratosis in Stirling & Hamilton: The procedure

Pre-operative preparation

Before surgery, Mr. Syed ensures each patient is fully assessed and informed. Preparation typically includes:

• A detailed consultation to review symptoms and expectations.
• X-rays to identify pressure points and bone alignment.
• Blood tests and pre-operative health checks.
• Guidance on fasting and medication adjustment before the procedure.

The surgery itself

Minimally invasive surgery for plantar hyperkeratosis is performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the case.

The procedure involves:

• Making tiny incisions (2–3 mm) near the affected area.
• Using specialised burrs and instruments to reshape or realign bones that cause abnormal pressure.
• Correcting any deformity (e.g. mild bunion or hammertoe) contributing to excessive callus formation.
• The thickened skin gradually softens and heals as pressure is relieved.

The operation typically lasts 30–60 minutes, and most patients go home the same day.

Where it’s performed

• Kings Park Hospital, Stirling (Polmaise Rd, FK7 9JH) – a leading facility offering state-of-the-art surgical suites and tailored recovery support.
• The Lanarkshire Clinic, Hamilton (Cadzow Avenue, ML3 0FT) – a modern, private hospital providing expert orthopaedic and podiatric care.

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery after MIS for plantar hyperkeratosis is generally quick and comfortable:

• 0–2 weeks: Protective footwear or post-op sandal; keep pressure minimal.
• 2–4 weeks: Gradual return to normal walking and shoes.
• 4–8 weeks: Full recovery with significant reduction in pain and callus formation.

Physiotherapy or gait retraining may be recommended to ensure long-term correction and prevent recurrence.

Risks and complications

As with all procedures, risks are minimal but may include:

• Infection at the incision site.
• Temporary swelling or bruising.
• Incomplete symptom relief if other areas of pressure remain.
• Rarely, delayed bone healing.

Mr. Syed uses precise, minimally invasive methods to minimise these risks and promote fast, safe recovery.

Why choose Mr. Turab Syed in Stirling & Hamilton?

• Expert in foot and ankle surgery, including complex and minimally invasive techniques.
• Fellowship-trained with advanced experience in managing forefoot deformities.
• Personalised treatment plans based on clinical and biomechanical assessment.
• Accessible locations at Kings Park Hospital and The Lanarkshire Clinic, serving patients across central Scotland.

FAQs

Is MIS for plantar hyperkeratosis painful?
Discomfort is minimal, and pain is well controlled with medication. Most patients walk immediately after surgery in a special shoe.

Will the hard skin return after surgery?
If the underlying cause (bone pressure or deformity) is corrected, recurrence is unlikely.

How long before I can wear normal shoes again?
Most patients return to regular footwear within 2–4 weeks.

Is the procedure suitable for both feet?
Yes, but Mr. Syed typically treats one foot at a time to aid mobility during recovery.

Book your consultation

If painful hard skin or forefoot pressure is affecting your comfort and mobility, minimally invasive surgery with Mr. Turab Syed could provide long-term relief.

Book a consultation today at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling or The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton to discuss your personalised treatment plan.