Systems, devices, and methods for endoscopically retracting a target tissue. The device includes a first shaft and a second shaft slidably coupled thereto. An internal member extends in a transverse direction from the first shaft and is configured for advancement through a penetration in the target tissue to atraumatically engage a distal surface of the target tissue after being advanced therethrough. A pair of external members extend from the second shaft generally parallel to the transverse direction. The external members are spaced apart and are configured to atraumatically engage a proximal surface of the target tissue when the internal member is moved longitudinally relative to the external members. The internal member applies traction to the target tissue when retracted past the pair of external members, which apply counter-traction to the target tissue on opposing lateral sides of the internal member, to re-shape the target tissue and enable subsequent suture placement.