Stretched/extra skin still around after giving birth 2 years ago

[AHP84]

I am of fairly small stature and build (5'5" and ~125 lbs).  Three years ago I got pregnant, gained 19 lbs, had my baby, and was back down to 123 lbs in less than two weeks (my official pre-pregnancy weight).  I have maintained my normal weight, which fluctuates only between 3-5 lbs, ever since.  I'm also in pretty decent shape; I have good muscle tone in my stomach and average stamina when exercising.
My question is this: Is there any possible way to get rid of the extra skin around my hips and lower stomach without cosmetic surgery?  I got stretch marks really badly when I was pregnant, and I know those scars are permanent, but what about this little bit of extra stretched out skin?  I hate it and my typical excercise apparently won't get rid of it.
Is stretched/extra skin as permanent as stretch marks, or is there a certain exercise I can do that will tighten up the skin?  It's not a very noticable amount to anyone but me, but it really bothers me.  Is there any hope without cosmetic surgery (which I won't be able to afford for years anyway)?
Thanks for any suggestions/advice.

[jdesouza]

Hi,
I think genetics is the major decider as to how elastic your skin is. It sounds like you are doing the right things to tone your muscles, that will help some but your genes are going to decide if your skin returns to normal. You are also right that you are probably the ony one that notices it. Try to focus instead on the great job you have done with your weight.
You should be proud.

[4357]

Before I got pregnant, my waist was 24"....then it went to 44" when I was in my eighth month. I had stretch marks up to 1 inch wide. I had a 10 and a half pound baby. I wore my normal clothes within a week of the birth. That was 33 years ago. I still have hanging skin from my naval down. The doctor told me the only way to get rid of the skin is a tummy tuck. My muscles in my stomach are VERY strong, because I worked out so hard trying to tighten up.
It really sucks going through life with sagging skin when you are so young. I never could afford a tummy tuck, so I will always have my apron of skin.
If I knew that I would look like this before, I would do it all again, the children are worth it.