Retraction of one or more three-dimensional or planar amorphous objects is provided to gain access for a procedure where the retracted elements are easily damaged by application of normal forces. For example, a surgical instrument to provide access to an organ or tissue plane. Microtextured surfaces are provided that provide immobilization of amorphous objects, the immobilization of which is characterized by low normal forces and high shear or in plane forces. The retraction device is comprised of microstructured surfaces on one or more arms. Preferably these arms are soft and flexible to minimize damage to retracted objects. In some instances, these arms resemble and are used as a nonslip tape. Alternatively, parts or whole arms of the retraction device are rigid to provide a supportive aspect. These arms may be configured around a handle. Furthermore, the microtextured aspect may be further augmented with conventional gripping surfaces, such as a sticky surface, or a surface comprised of one or more hooks or barbs. The handle means may be distributed over the retraction device, for example, holes distributed along the arms through which anchoring means are tied. The retraction device is particularly well suited for grasping wet, oily, slimy or living surfaces by applying a small nondestructive normal force.