A method for lifting individual flat objects from a stack of objects includes providing at least two suction elements spaced apart from one another for lifting a respective object, alternately lifting the respective objects with the suction elements, and either forcing the respective object in at least one deforming direction or deforming the respective object in at least one region thereof during the lifting of the respective object. The method further includes providing, between the at least two suction elements, at least one plunger for deforming the respective object. The invention further relates to a device for performing the method.