help on flattening

I need help on flattening my image. I set my layer options (ie. bevels and drop shadows) and try to flatten the image. The image doesn't look the same after. It is as if flattening takes away the shadows and depth of the image. What am I doing wrong?

1 - posting in the wrong forum (this is features request). Try Windows or Mac Photoshop forum depending on whether you have a Windows or Mac computer

2 - best comparisons are made at 100% view

Sorry this is my first visit to the forums.

Groovy - I think you'll get swifter answers in the "proper" forum.

In the meantime if you discover some neat things that should be added to Photoshop I this is the one to post in.

Don't woory about it - I usually get into far more trouble without even trying :)