I'm not so sure it's such a large number of grafts for the area covered. I think the post op pics are a bit more revealing of the situation. The front and mid scalp were addressed with 4800 grafts and probably will be a one and done pass. Most patients require a touch up in the hairline and further back or even a second pass to achieve decent coverage.
I also think that the OP was closer to a NW 4 than a NW 3.
I still feel the number of grafts is on the high side but i would consider it a success if the results ended in a 1 and done procedure.
Regarding Couto, Freitas, Eugenix etc i've seen them work wonders with a cansiderably lower number, yes. However sometimes i feel the results are a little misleading regarding lighting and may lead to false expectations / misleading judgment. Still, the results are amongst the best in the industry.
Just my two cents,
Saludos!