<p>To enhance the deformation capacity of vertical support columns of underground structures and improve their overall seismic performance, a new truncated column connected by unbonded prestressed tendons is proposed, inspired by the concepts of the toughness seismic resistance and rocking design. Although many experimental and numerical studies have focused on underground structures, research on the behavior of truncated columns remains limited. This paper develops three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) models for various columns, including cast-in-place column (CIPC) and prestressed tendon truncated column (PTTC), to evaluate the effects of three parameters, including axial compression ratio (ACR), initial tendon stress, and the effect of hole diameter on mechanical performance—specifically deformation capacity, strength, residual deformation and gap width. The results indicate that the deformability and self-centering ability of the prestressed tendon truncated column is obviously superior to the cast-in-place column, but its strength was comparatively lower. The axial compression ratio has obvious effects on seismic performance, especially deformation and residual deformation, while initial tendon stress and hole diameter influence performance only in the case of a small axial compression ratio. This study systematically identifies the influence of various factors on seismic performance. Additionally, this study proposes a method to evaluate the self-centering capability of structures and establishes an empirical relationship between maximum recoverable deformation and the axial compression ratio. The developed numerical model can serve as a tool for future studies to predict the seismic responses of overall subway stations that feature truncated columns.</p>