Sweetcorn side shoots

Nope 

They're called tillers and if you're really lucky you might get another cob off them (don't hold your breath though).

I read an article which said that while the tillers are small they contribute to the growth of the main plant. Once they start to form flowers they just contribute to their own growth but do not detract from the main plant.

In my experience they seldon form a worthwhile cob. Does not matter either way.