A flexible access device for insertion through tissue is provided. The flexible access device includes a compressible body having a first collapsed configuration and a second resiliently expanded configuration. The body is compressible in both a radial dimension and a longitudinal dimension and is resilient to expand in an incision in the tissue. The body includes a trailing end defining concave receiving recess and a leading end defining a concave exiting recess. The flexible access device further includes a lumen disposed in the body and extending therethrough, the lumen communicating with the concave receiving and exiting recesses so as to receive an instrument with a non-linear shaft.