The greater wingspan 4’8” really does not pose a problem at the larger airports. The -800 utilize the same gates as B-757s B-767s which have significantly greater wingspans. The entry points and alleys leading to the gates also reflect the extra berth required to accommodate larger aircraft.
At smaller airports with tighter ramp areas greater vigilance is required no matter the type of aircraft to ensure proper clearances.
Marshallers have been known to lead a crew onto stand and oops there goes a wing tip into a service truck. The same on push back, when wing walkers are just not paying attention to what’s going on.