So if someone mentions that they are going to have some kind of surgery or medical procedure, but doesn’t mention what it is, and you don’t know them well (e.g., if it’s a coworker or new acquaintance), and it doesn’t seem like a good idea to pry, what do you say to them?
It’s probably a good idea to wish them well in some way, but because of the lack of specific detail, it’s not clear what’s appropriate. You don’t know if it’s serious or not–you can’t take it lightly if it’s actually serious, and you don’t want to say something serious/ominous-sounding if it’s actually something routine.
“Hope it goes well”? “Hope you’re okay”? “Hope your situation is okay”?
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Also, do you ask about it when you see or talk to them again to show concern or could it make someone uncomfortable if they don’t want to talk about it?
Empathize with whatever emotion they show: “oh wow, surgery sounds scary! Are you nervous?”
Offer reassurance: “I hope everything goes well/ I hope you start feeling better. Can’t wait to have you back in the office!”
It’s ok to ask questions if you know them well and if you know they’re forthcoming with information; personally, I choose not to ask for details unless I have a good rapport with the person.