Are excessive scabs after a hair transplant an early sign of failed hair transplant? (Photo)

Scabbing is caused by dried blood and also by little pieces of skin that are attached to the hair follicle. The fact that you had or someone did not have scabbing probably wont impact your hair transplant if each person had the same aftercare.
Scabbing may last longer if you are less aggressive during cleansing. No scabbing can indicate grafts placed too deep.
Dont focus too much on presence of scabs. However if they are persistent after a few weeks follow up with your surgeon.Hope this helps.

After a hair transplant, scabs and crusts appear around the treated areas of the scalp; it's impossible for one to get a hair transplant without getting scabs. This is perfectly normal and to be expected, and usually they should disappear (by falling off naturally 4 to 10 days after they have formed). As the scabs fall off, you may notice that hair is shed with them. THIS IS NORMAL. Do not pick or scratch the scabs, doing so can cause infection and endanger the survival of the grafts.

One common sign of failed hair transplants is related to problems with grafts distribution. A lower than usual density can create balding-style hair or create a doll-shaped hairstyle. On the other hand, too much density can also create unusual looks and even damage the natural hair follicles on the scalp. (These would be indicators to be conscious of in regards to a successful vs. unsuccessful hair transplant).

Generally, most of the hair transplant scabs remain on your scalp until the tenth day after the surgery. It is also generally recommended after 10-15 days post surgery; that one can safely do the hair transplant scab removal by gently massaging your scalp while applying your lotion and shampoo.

You might feel the urge to scratch the small scabs as they can get itchy, I would strongly advised against that. It might provide temporary relief, but you can permanently damage the results of your surgery by dislodging the grafts. It also increases the risk of infection. If you do try scratching, it might reopen the wound, making it bleed. This will, of course, prolong the healing process. Moreover, the risk of more prominent scarring increases. In addition, it can cause swelling, pain, bleeding, or redness, which can slow down healing. Please, do not scratch your scalp.

Everyone heals differently and scabbing is apart of the healing process. If you notice the scabs falling off while washing your scalp (with minimal pressure; falling off themselves not being picked off) this would be the cue to use the gentle massage method with lotion/shampoo above.