Specialities
Consultant optometrist
20 years’ experience
600+ yearly procedures
£95 consultation
Practice Plus Group Google rating
Darren Kirton
Mr Darren Kirton is an experienced optometrist and clinical leader, specialising in both primary and secondary eye care. He has extensive expertise in managing a wide range of eye conditions and is committed to providing care that is personalised, clear, and patient-centred. Darren ensures every patient feels supported, informed, and confident in their treatment.
Biography
Darren has been part of our ophthalmology team since 2018, bringing a strong background in clinical practice and leadership. Before joining Practice Plus Group, he worked as clinical director across three practices and served as optometric lead. He also held roles as vice chair and member of the Avon Local Optical Committee (LOC), reflecting his long-standing involvement in improving eye care services locally.
He is a Member of the College of Optometrists and is on the specialist GOC register as an independent prescriber, enabling him to provide comprehensive care and manage a wide range of eye conditions.
Procedures
Expert in cataract consultation
Mr Kirton specialises in cataract consultation
Expert in YAG laser
Mr Kirton specialises in YAG
Expert in glaucoma
Mr Kirton specialises in glaucoma
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) Optometry
Bachelor of Science, Cardiff, 2001
BSc Professional Cert Glaucoma
Bachelor of Science, Cardiff, 2022
Diploma
Therapeutic Prescribing, Cardiff, 2023
About me
£95 consultation
Including x-rays, bloods and swabs
Languages
English
2018
Started at Practice Plus Group
Hobbies and interests
Mr Kirton is a father of 4 who enjoys getting out for hikes and mountain walks.
Learn more about Darren Kirton
Mr Kirton specialises in cataract consultations, YAG laser, and glaucoma treatment.
He joined Practice Plus Group Hospital in 2018 and volunteers for the local Sea Cadets.
Mr Kirton treats self-pay patients, private medical insurance patients and NHS patients.
A private consultation with Mr Kirton costs just £95. This price includes: an in-depth consultation and a tailored treatment plan. Simply call 0330 058 1804 or fill out the form on this page.
Mr Kirton’s approach to patient care
Darren believes in delivering thorough, patient-centred care that balances clinical precision with clear, compassionate communication. His goal is to ensure every patient feels informed, comfortable, and confident in the care they receive.
Mr Kirton’s specialist training and surgical techniques
Darren has training in independent prescribing and has trained in the delivery of YAG Capsulotomy under Mr Jonas Laursen.
Mr Kirton’s memberships, fellowships and teaching
– MOC Member of the College of Optometrists and former member & Vice chair of Avon LOC
– Delivered CPD on Yag Capsulotomy
– Former member and Vice Chair of the Avon LOC
Mr Kirton’s research and publications
Darren published a somewhat prophetic article in the optician magazine some years ago which predicted the capacity problems secondary care would have due to unintended consequences of implementing NICE guidelines on glaucoma. This lead in part to the revising of the NICE guidelines a few years later. Glaucoma capacity is still a problem nationally.
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A few words from Mr Kirton:
“Clear vision, clear care – supporting every patient with precision and empathy.”
Darren Kirton
Consultant ophthalmologist
Why choose a surgeon from Practice Plus Group?
At Practice Plus Group Hospitals we’re passionate about giving patients a positive experience and excellent clinical outcomes, with personalised care from start to finish. Whether you’re paying for yourself or using private medical insurance, with our short waiting times, unrivalled Care Quality Commission (CQC) ratings and world-class surgeons, we’ll make sure you’re looked after every step of the way.
Interested in private surgery?
Have a question about our Wellsoon private surgery service? Why not give us a call to chat about your choices.
Call us today on 0330 058 1804
FAQs about the consultant
Not quite found the information about Darren Kirton you’re looking for? Our dedicated FAQs can help!
Where is Darren Kirton located?
Darren Kirton practises at Shepton Mallet
Does Darren Kirton accept new patients?
Yes, Darren Kirton is always happy to welcome new patients for Eye treatments.
Does Darren Kirton accept insured patients?
Yes, Darren Kirton accepts insured patients. The approved insurers are:
Does Darren Kirton accept self-pay patients?
Yes, Darren Kirton is happy to welcome patients seeking Eye treatments via the self-pay route.
Does Darren Kirton accept NHS patients?
Yes, Darren Kirton accepts NHS Eye treatments patients.
Do I need a referral to see Darren Kirton?
If you are seeking treatment via the self-pay route, you won’t need a GP referral. NHS patients will need a referral from their GP to access a consultation with Darren Kirton.
Can I pay to see Darren Kirton?
Yes. An initial consultation with Darren Kirton costs £95. This usually takes place a couple of weeks after making your booking enquiry.
What can I expect during my consultation with Darren Kirton?
First, Darren Kirton will need to diagnose your issue and figure out your treatment options.
This will likely involve them carrying out medical tests such as X-rays or blood tests. They may also ask questions about your medical history.
How much does it cost to see Darren Kirton?
It costs £95 to have an initial consultation with Darren Kirton.
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*Average yearly procedures at Practice Plus Group Hospitals. Data from 2023-2024. Figure correct as of 31st December 2024.