Had a ganglion cyst removed from hand. three stitches. when the stitches were removed, incision was still open. is this normal? skin didn't close?

Unfortunately there: Are times when something like this happens. Most commonly it is just some of the superficial skin spreading a bit. This happens in the winter in northern climates more often. The top layer of skin dries and cracks . This is something you should speak to your surgeon about to find out how the wound needs to be cared for. Finally some people just take longer to heal for many different reasons.

Could be: Sometimes the deep layers heal faster than the top skin layer. As long as the deeper layers are closed, just keep the wound clean and covered. If the deep layers seem open, have your surgeon recheck the wound.