In November of 2008, Artes Medical, the manufacturer of Artefill, filed bankruptcy. While there may have been corporate reasons for this, the ArteFill product (despite its long-lasting or permanent effects) had some disadvantages compared to other dermal injectable fillers. For example, cosmetic treatments are a budget issue for many and the high initial cost, even if it lasts longer, eliminated much of the market potential. In addition, because it was not recommended for use in the lips, one of the most common uses for injectable fillers, another segment of the patient market was eliminated. These two factors narrowed the market potential for this ArteFill considerably. We were, however, very happy with the results of ArteFill and did not see any complications with use.
Artefill was the first permanent dermal filler FDA approved in the last decade, but for now, ArteFill remains unavailable for the foreseeable future. With similar outcomes, we also offer Silikon 1000 as a permanent dermal filler. Silikon 1000 has not been FDA approved for cosmetic purposes but in our hands has been shown to be safe and effective. Other FDA approved injectable dermal filler options are Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, Evolence, Collagen, and Radiesse.
-Dawn Davidson, R.N.
