Quick Answer
Most lacerations should be closed within 12 hours of the injury. Face wounds can sometimes be closed up to 24 hours later. After those windows, the infection risk climbs significantly and we typically clean and dress the wound but leave it open to heal. If you've cut yourself, come in same-day rather than waiting to see how it does.
This question comes up frequently for patients researching burns & lacerations at Good Health NC in Knightdale, NC.
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