I would probably say this product does what it needs to.  It is pretty comfortable to wear through out the day, however the bathroom part is a pain in the butt to deal with.  I'm 5'2" and curvy/thick whatever you want to call it.  I am not over weight, but I hold my weight in my hips, thighs, and butt area.  My stomach is already pretty flat but can use some extra help.  Spanx higher power did the job in that area, however I didn't feel like they fit like they should have.  I felt like they gave me a unibutt, and the huge seem straight down the front and back made it difficult to wear under tight fitting tops, or dresses.  Also, it was a bit long for me, I ended up having to fold it down once or twice at the top, right under my breasts.  I found myself having to pull it up in the back throughout the day, as it does not have anything to keep it in place on the band at the top.  I felt more confident wearing these, but going to the bathroom was such a hassle that I would not recommend wearing them everyday.  Overall, I'm not sure these are worth the money.  I'd probably buy more if I could get them for half the price.