hair... to answer your question about ear to ear strip ie. smaller sessions require less donor removal, hence, smaller strip. For that many FU's you will have approx. a 11"-15" incision, depending on donor density, which in no way would be over the ear. However, and this is big, you make certain that they transplant each and every hair they take out of your head!
Also, you need to know what your potential hair loss will be. 1200-1400 fu's is not much coverage. Are you planning on more than one HT? Most everyone here recommends huge sessions and their points and results are legit and they make very valid arguments. Ultimately, however, it comes down to what works for you.
It sounds like you haven't really done much research. Spend some time here, ask for advice like you are now and then proceed with a HT.