RNY and alcohol consumption

I hate to sound like the "pro-alcohol" person but I had the same questions before my surgery ( six weeks ago).  My doctor told me that I'd have to be careful but would absolutely be able to drink. On top of that, I have a friend that had RNY eight years ago.  He drinks Captain and Diet Coke (im shocked about the carbonation but he says its never bothered him) regularly....and, on many occassions, he "binge drinks".  He maintains his weight loss just fine.  He just doesnt drive after drinking AT ALL.  

None of us will have the exact same experience.  On my doctors orders I cant, and wont, touch it til January.  At that point, I will try a beer and see how it goes from there. My long term intention is to be a social drinker while also maintaining weight loss.