I believe one big variable is the reason the battery was dead. If the battery is shot it’s a risk, but of the battery is good and the lights were left on, it should recharge without incident to the alternator. I suspect that while the initial load on the alternator of any drained battery is high, a good battery will charge and the load to the alternator will go rapidly enough that there should be no damage.
I have on evidence to back this up. Just a hunch. I’m bein’ honest here.