Ah, Summertime - When the Muffin-Tops Come Out to Play

The muffin-tops are back! You can't avoid them, they're everywhere...and you can't help looking either.

Summer brings with it midriff-baring tops and low-rise shorts, not to mention bikinis on some who might be better served by wearing a one-piece. It also brings barbecues, ice cream trucks, and boardwalk treats galore. Put the two together, and what do you get? Muffin-tops, of course.

Just in case you've been living under a rock and need clarification, a "muffin-top" is not the tasty treat you're imagining. It is the excess flesh that spills over the top of one's pants, especially when they're too tight.

If you have a muffin-top situation going on, never fear. There are things that can be done about it. Of course, there's always the tired-and-true tactic of a sensible diet and exercise.

But you say you've tried it all and still you've got issues? If those issues are localized trouble spots that won't budge despite your calorie-counting and your many hours in the gym, then you could always try liposuction. Afraid of the downtime, pain, and long recovery? Look into Smart Lipo. No muffin-top, but mortified by your cottage-cheesy thighs? Have you heard about Acoustic Wave Therapy?

But what if you don't have the budget for cosmetic surgery or even non-invasive cosmetic procedures? Well, you could always try a good dose of self-acceptance together with some mid-rise capri pants and a forgiving empire-waisted blouse.

See plastic surgery before and after photos.