I have not personally injected ArteFill® but am told the advantages include more volume and research documents longer lasting results than other presently FDA-approved dermal fillers. Silicone in not FDA approved as a dermal filler, nor is it recommended.
Longer-lasting fillers like ArteFill, (approved to treat the nasolabial folds or lines from the nose to the outer corners of the mouth) offer some advantage: The duration of results means that you do not have to inject regularly.
However, because of the longer duration, many doctors approach correction conservatively, and it may require re-injection to achieve the desired shape and volume replacement.
A disadvantage is that it is difficult to remove the filler or correct enhancement in the event the patient does not like the effect or has complications including granuloma formation (small bumps that can be felt under the skin). Complication is generally more likely with off-label use, and so the risks associated with off label uses should be thoroughly discussed with a qualified doctor before treatment.
