Catheter removal depends on the type of RP you had. The DaVinci Robot system does not usually require 2 or more weeks. Laparoscopic RP, usually 2 weeks. Retro-public RP, usually 2 weeks. Surgeons vary on this, but that is what you will typically see.
I have advocated that the surgeon install some nitrous-oxide analgesia for removal of the catheter. It's not "horribly" painful, but it is not pleasant. Fortunately it is over very, very quickly.
It is not worth taking the risk of moving heavy objects or lifting until 6-8 weeks have passed post op RP. You could get an internal rupturing of sutures and fascial planes.
Back to work depends on if you have a job that requires lifting. If you have to lift more than say 10lbs on a daily basis...repetitively...at least 2 months off work. A desk job, much less time. You can hide the leg bag under your pants. Nobody knows it's there. Be sure to put on some velcro on the leg bag spigot. Sometimes they "open" accidentally.
RP, retropubic 2/23/11.
68 y/o
PSA 4.1 2009
PSA 5.3 2010
Gleason 3+3 (post op)
pTc2a (one half of removed prostate...no extension into capsule or seminal vesicles)
No nodules