What are the advantages and disadvantages of macro lenses?

Micro lenses are designed for photographing subjects at extremely close range, and they can basically be used only for that purpose. The main use is for high-quality close-ups. Some of the disadvantages are:1. Versatility - I mentioned this already, it basically does one thing. 2. expense - they are expensive 3. handling - A longer and heavier lens like a macro can be unwieldy in some situations.