Is anyone doing Dr. Merck's stitch method in or near California?

Far more important than the technique is the skill and experience of your plastic surgeon. Choose your surgeon rather than the technique and let them explain why one technique may be better than another.  See the below link on some suggestions on finding the most qualified Plastic Surgeon for you.  Always insist on a board certified plastic surgeon.

There are probably dozens of surgeons who perform that in the U.S.   Most would use that as one of many techniques used as it can't be used for all patients.