Introduction: Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease that compromises peri-implant tissues and supporting bone, potentially leading to implant loss. Although several surgical treatment strategies have been proposed, it remains unclear whether implant surface characteristics (smooth vs. rough) influence long-term treatment outcomes.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted to evaluate clinical studies with a minimum follow-up of 3 years that assessed the outcomes of surgical treatment of peri-implantitis in relation to implant surface type. Data extraction focused on recurrence of peri-implantitis, implant survival, clinical parameters, radiographic outcomes, and the type of surgical approach used (reconstructive vs. non-reconstructive).

Results: Seventeen clinical studies were included. Outcomes varied according to implant surface characteristics. Rough (modified) surfaces were generally associated with a higher risk of recurrence of peri-implantitis and implant loss compared with smooth (machined/turned) surfaces. Reconstructive surgical approaches, especially those involving bone grafts and membranes, demonstrated more favorable outcomes compared with non-reconstructive approaches.

Discussion: Despite observed trends, the certainty of the evidence remains low due to heterogeneity between studies, small sample sizes, and methodological limitations. Further well-designed long-term clinical trials are needed to clarify the role of implant surface characteristics in the long-term success of peri-implantitis surgical treatment.