An illustrative embodiment of a tissue separation and equalization device includes a generally elongated tissue insertion member; at least one tissue separating member opening in the tissue insertion member; at least one elongated tissue separating member having at least one flexible or bendable expansion segment, respectively, extending longitudinally within the tissue insertion member generally adjacent to the at least one tissue separating member opening, respectively; and a driving mechanism engaging the at least one tissue separating member and operable to displace the at least one tissue separating member within the tissue insertion member and expand or buckle the at least one expansion segment outwardly from the tissue insertion member through the at least one tissue separating member opening, respectively.