Ok, I have a few theories about your scenario, from what I have endured and observed regarding others. I know it may sound harsh and a little mean but it is really not intended to and intended for help.
You say you look different, and you've been bullied for 8 years. So I would assume you have changed schools in that time periods (Grade School to Middle School to High School whatever) So your looks may give your aggressors a bit of a pre-conceived notion that you're a dork or weird or whatever. And it is probably also safe to say more insults about you go on behind your back then to your face, sorry I know not comforting, but likely true.
So this means it's time to break out of that cocoon, easier said than done I know. You may have some friends right now, look at them, see if others consider them "nerdy" (I frankly don't believe in labels like this but in Middle School there are
SOOOOO many clique problems going on it's not even funny, so if your in a group of "nerds" know that.) If you want the harassment to stop maybe see if there is anyone in any of your classes that doesn't completely despise or ignore you and
casually try and befriend him. The best way to do this is over a long period of time, talk to him a little bit, then more, then more, then more. Invite him over for a little bit after a while, try and make a new friend who isn't bullied, so people can look at you and say, "hey he's not awful look who he's hanging out with." If your group of friends are considered "nerds" try and slowly and slowly spend a little less time with them at school. I'm not saying de-friend them, I'm not that awful. Just maybe try and get your name less associated with them. Still hang out with them on weekends and everything though.
Also watch your behavior, maybe turn shy into relaxed, then into laid back, eventually have a kind of cool personality. No I'm not saying stop being who you are just think before you speak, that's all. After a period of time it might just work, the bullying may fade.
I hope I could help a little, not trying to be mean and please don't take offense, I really didn't mean it to be, I just know how the average middle school runs