"Temporary cosmetic imperfection" That tortoise has been injured...either by the heat lamp being too close to her shell or by the male being rough when breeding. Yes, its temporary, but its not just cosmetic. That's bone that you see. How would he like to have HIS bone showing like that. And the "temporary" usually lasts more than a couple of years.
Hi Tortoisepower:
We haven't had a chance to give you a proper welcome because your first post was in the "for sale" thread, where we're not allowed back and forth conversation.
So...
Welcome to the forum!! May we know your name and where you're from?