Question:
How long after surgery should you wait before drinking beer?

   — Bonnie L. (posted on June 14, 2001)

June 14, 2001
!!!!!!! F O R E V E R !!!!!!!
   — CohenHeart

June 14, 2001
Each person is probably different. I probably didn't have a beer (or any other alcohol) for about 4 months. When you do, be sure to take it slow. I find that alcohol "goes to my head" more quickly now, especially on an empty stomach. So, you should definitely not have any if you have to drive. At the grocery store I found Sapporo beer that comes in 4.5 ounce cans (I've seen small bottles of Corona also). Perfect size for me. I can rarely finish a regular size beer.
   — Gina E.

June 14, 2001
The materials my surgeon gave me suggest one year before alcohol. I don't drink - so it's not an issue for me. Good luck to you.
   — blee01

June 14, 2001
BEER ... LIQUOR ... ALL EMPTY CALORIES!!! HERE'S A QUESTION TO ALL. WHY GO THROUGH ALL THIS IF YOU ARE GOING TO MESS UP YOUR SUCCESS FACTOR BY TAKING IN THINGS THAT WILL HINDER YOUR POTENTIAL TO LOSE THAT WEIGHT THAT IS KILLING YOU???? CALL ME ANAL ... I DON'T MUCH CARE BUT I STARTED AT 389 POUNDS 16 MONTHS AGO ... AM NOW UNDER 200 POUNDS BECAUSE I MADE A COMMITTMENT AND STICKING TO IT.
   — TERRY L.

June 14, 2001
To answer your question, my doctor told me 6 months. However, I had a glass of wine last night at a concert and I am only 4 mos. post-op and down 80 lbs. It will go to your head faster from what I have been told. So, the best answer would be from your doctor. I wouldn't worry about the empty calorie issue as I would the "dumping syndrome" issue since alcohol is straight sugar. Luckily, I don't experience that, but a lot of people do. Now, don't get me wrong, I do watch what I eat, but I don't torture myself. If I want something I will eat it. Not the entire thing as before, but a couple of bites to get rid of the craving. I was just fine after my wine.
   — Carina H.

June 14, 2001
I've heard many surgeons suggest at least a year. I think too, it depends on the quantity. After surgery we don't all process things the same, and I read somewhere that some bypass patients are more prone to cirrhosis and must be careful. So, I'd say one year, and very, very moderate! Good luck!
   — Tina C.