Trigger warning, self harm

[BadLuck2023]

Hi there,

Years ago I went through a very rough time in my life and ended up with a scar on my arm. I got therapy and medication and now my depression is managed.

I need to have surgery on my elbow and the surgeon will see the scar. If he asks me about it I don't really want to tell him what the scar is actually from, are there any believable stories?

What's wrong with 'old injury ' - true but vague?

I don't think you need to make up a story. Just say it's from a long time ago and leave it at that. I have many scars from when I used to self harm and the only people who ever ask me what they are medical professionals when it is completely unrelated to any treatment I've received since and is obvious anyway. Drives me crazy but I usually just say they're from a very long time ago and don't engage in further conversation about them.

I wouldn't bother lying. Usually medical professionals either know not to ask if it's obvious what the scars are from or, if I am ever asked (by anyone) I say it was a long time ago and not a good time in my life.

Don’t lie to your doctor.

Just say it's very old and doesn't relate to the current procedure. If they even ask they shouldn't press beyond a response like that.

Try not to worry. Don't feel ashamed, you were clearly suffering at that time and anyone who wanted to judge that is not your concern.

It's up to you really, he'll have seen and heard far worse.

He will spot it and know what it is immediately. Likely won't ask on that basis.