matx - I've had both strip and FUE, and yes, the area can still be a little painful a few weeks out. I really wouldn't worry, you'll heal. If you got an infection, that's a different story, but antibiotics will take care of that. I'm sure the doc used .9mm punch's, it would be unethical to lie about that, and Beehner has such a stellar reputation that you should be comforted with his response. I know after my FUE session, I made a point of not looking at the donor area for about a month, and when I did look there was nothing to see. Best of luck, I'm sure you'll be fine.
Manko