If it is certain that a wound requires stitches, WebMD recommends that the wound not remain open for longer than six to eight hours after the injury occurs.
https://www.reference.com/health/long-can-wait-stitches-ac24a93e45c2ac0b
SEND TO A FRIEND: I got a HUGE gash in my arm when a horse took off while I was holding her line through a metal fence. The hospital was 50 miles away and it was a weekend so I couldn't go to my doctor(because I couldn't leave my disabled parents alone on our ranch...so I tried to fix it myself. Now I have a huge crescent-shaped scar on my arm. If there's an emergency room nearby,go there.
http://www.experienceproject.com/question-answer/How-Long-Can-You-Wait-After-Getting-A-Injury-To-Get-Stitches/1091106
Caring for Stitches. The doctor or nurse will give you instructions for caring for your stitches as your cut heals. These may include specific steps for cleaning and dressing the wound. You may be advised to keep the wound and bandages dry.
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/getting-stitches-and-caring-for-stitches
Stitches aren't the only option doctors have to close cuts and incisions. Cuts sometimes can be held together with butterfly tape or adhesive strips, which you may be able to do yourself at home for more minor cuts.
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/getting-stitches-and-caring-for-stitches
1 Is deep, jagged, or gaping. 2  Is on the face or another part of the body where scarring may be an issue. 3  Bleeds profusely without stopping after 20 minutes of direct pressure. 4  Feels numb.  Is in a hand or limb that doesn't function properly after being cut.
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/getting-stitches-and-caring-for-stitches
Although it's natural to feel a little anxious if you're getting stitches, especially if you've just experienced trauma, the procedure is generally painless. And stitches will help cuts heal with minimal scarring or risk for infection.
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/getting-stitches-and-caring-for-stitches
It is very important to have an open wound closed as soon as possible if stitches are required except when a doctor advises to leave it open under medical supervision. Injuries requiring stitches can become infected if not treated soon enough. It is best to visit a doctor to determine if a wound needs stitches, but there are some telling signs that people can use to gauge the seriousness of a wound.
https://www.reference.com/health/long-can-wait-stitches-ac24a93e45c2ac0b
I cut myself yesterday with a piece of glass and it starting bleeding like crazy, took about 10 minutes for it to stop. But I dident think it needed stitches. But my roommate tells me it does. But it happened yesterday.
http://www.experienceproject.com/question-answer/How-Long-Can-You-Wait-After-Getting-A-Injury-To-Get-Stitches/1091106
A few minutes after the injury, a wound begins to heal with the formation of a blood clot and scab to protect it from infection, according to MedlinePlus. For two to five days, the wound becomes slightly red and tender as the body increases blood flow to the area.
https://www.reference.com/health/long-can-wait-stitches-ac24a93e45c2ac0b
Wounds in areas where scarring is a concern for cosmetic reasons should be stitched, such as on the face and lips. Wounds that continue to bleed after 15 minutes of direct pressure may also require stitches, notes WebMD.
https://www.reference.com/health/long-can-wait-stitches-ac24a93e45c2ac0b
how soon after a cut should you get stitches
You should get stitches no longer than six to eight hours after the injury or cut occurs. You should get stitches longer than six to eight hours after a cut.