Normally, when you purchase a new surgical loupe, you will first choose the type of loupe you want and need based on the specific factors such as the magnification level, pupillary distance, depth of field, field of view, angle of declination, and quality of optics. Once you have already decided which loupe to pick, the next thing you need to consider is the type of frame to choose. There are several designs and types of frames to choose from. And they vary in color, design, and materials used according to the surgical loupe manufacturers. 

surgical loupe

In this blog post, we are going to name the first three frame options that you can find on the market today.

Plastic Frames

Durability and stability wise, plastic frames are the worst option available. Although most of the plastic frames are famous for their fashionable design and appealing physical attributes, we can not always recommend you to pick this type.

Plastic frames are by far the most unstable and least durable frame for your surgical magnifying loupes. They may be able to support your loupes during the first few months or years but the longer you use them, the more unstable they get. Plus, they tend to warp after years of use. You may need to adjust them from time to time to make sure that they are well-balanced and comfortable to wear. And this can be a bit frustrating and disturbing most especially during surgical operations.

Headlight

Flimsy Metal Frames

Surgical loupes frames that are made of flimsy metals are among the most affordable options. However, despite their fashionable design and affordability, we can not consider them as the best choice. Just like plastic, flimsy metals are also unstable and challenging to adjust and balance most especially if they have to support large barrels or higher magnification loupes. They can also easily go out of adjustment especially if you have been using them for years already. Regular adjustment is needed to ensure utmost comfort, balance, and functionality.

Titanium Frames

Titanium frames are so far the best option available when it comes to durability, stability, and adjustability. Although their price mark is a bit higher as compared to plastic and flimsy metal frames, they can be considered as the most economical choice especially if you think about long-term use. They are very durable and they can be able to last a couple of years longer than flimsy metals and plastic frames. And since they can last longer, you do not need to buy new frame year after year. Thus, saves you more than buying cheap yet not so durable options.

Titanium frames can provide you with the balance and stability required to support the surgical magnification loupes in place. They can also be easily adjusted. But you may need to contact the manufacturer if you need it to be adjusted. They are commonly used for loupes with higher magnification levels, specifically, from 4.0x and above. They can also be used with lower magnification loupes, though.

In the next part, we will continue to name a few more types and designs of surgical loupes frames.