I faced a similar issue with the Stigma when I decided a few years ago to wear shorts. I have scars, pretty much everywhere. I kept my legs covered for years because of this. They are TOO visible. I got used to my arms being uncovered. Now I have scars on face, I thought "I'm tired of being too hot in the summer". I asked my family for their opinions and they said that people don't really look at legs when out and about. I thought differently. I gave it a shot wearing shorts and felt so uncomfortable for weeks. Eventually I got used to it. I have had many people ask about the scars, which blows the confidence of wearing shorts, but I persevered. I get what you say about recent SH too. I try to keep hidden until they are less noticeable.
When I went swimming once, (Which I don't do often because of the scars and I cannot swim!), I wore some long shorts rather than a costume. I was so distracted and hyper-vigilant about everything around me, that I didn't enjoy that time, one bit. I decided that I just won't go there, but everyone has different levels of tolerance to that. Another time, I wore the long shorts and I was told I couldn't go in the pool wearing them, It was against regulations. That confused me, because why should it be different when Men/Boys can wear long shorts and not Women/Girls?
The Stigma is still there even though a lot more people are open about it these days.
I would like a Full Body Skin Transplant, so I can have nice skin again and not feel judged or questioned.