The microstructural mechanisms which dictate the two-way shape-memory effect in indentation-induced NiTi surfaces is currently unknown. We create surfaces capable of thermally induced switchable topography, and characterize their behavior via white-light interferometry, X-ray and electron back scatter diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. Results show that the switchable topography is heavily influenced by the initial microstructure, and may be inherently controlled by thermally stabilized martensite directly beneath the residual indent.